New research estimates that phthalates, common chemicals in plastics, contributed to 350,000 cardiovascular deaths worldwide in 2018, though experts caution the findings require further study.
Nina Agrawal reports for The New York Times.
In short:
- Researchers at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine linked phthalate exposure, particularly DEHP found in vinyl products, to 13% of cardiovascular deaths among 55- to 64-year-olds globally in 2018.
- Experts note the study’s reliance on statistical modeling and previous U.S.-based data introduces uncertainties, particularly when applying results globally where health risks and exposures vary.
- While the study strengthens concerns about phthalates’ role in metabolic disorders and hormone disruption, researchers stress the need for larger, long-term studies to better understand the chemicals’ impact on heart health.
Key quote:
“This is an early step of trying to understand the magnitude of the problem.”
— Dr. Mark Huffman, cardiologist and co-director of the global health center at WashU Medicine in St. Louis
Why this matters:
Phthalates, widely used to make plastics flexible and found in products ranging from food packaging to personal care items, have long raised health concerns. Known as endocrine disruptors, these chemicals can interfere with hormone systems and have been linked to reproductive problems, birth complications, and metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes — conditions that also elevate heart disease risk. As the world grapples with the pervasive presence of plastics, understanding the potential for phthalates to contribute to cardiovascular mortality adds an important dimension to existing environmental and public health knowledge. The study’s findings, while preliminary, highlight the far-reaching impact that synthetic chemicals may have not just on reproductive and developmental health but also on chronic diseases affecting millions worldwide.
Related EHN coverage:
- What are endocrine-disrupting chemicals?
- Phthalate chemicals found in popular olive oils
- Phthalate chemicals found in popular coconut oils
- Black and Latinx hairdressers exposed to high levels of phthalates
- Would you like phthalates with that burger?
- Phthalates found in some popular tallow brands
- What will it take to give babies a phthalate-free start in the world?
