A recent study suggests a connection between phthalates in food packaging and a rise in premature births.
Sandee LaMotte reports for CNN.
In short:
- Researchers link phthalates, chemicals in clear food packaging, to premature births, identifying them as potential disruptors of placental function.
- Approximately 57,000 preterm births in 2018 in the U.S. may be attributed to these chemicals, posing a significant cost to society.
- Despite industry claims of safety, experts call for broader regulation, highlighting the greater risk posed by chemical exposure.
Key quote:
"Phthalates can also contribute to inflammation that can disrupt the placenta even more and set the steps of preterm labor in motion."
— Dr. Leonardo Trasande, director of environmental pediatrics at NYU Langone Health
Why this matters:
The study addresses the need to reassess the safety of everyday products and their impact on health, particularly for the most vulnerable. By connecting phthalate exposure to serious health outcomes like premature births, this research highlights the broader issue of chemical safety in consumer products and the potential long-term effects on public health.
