A new study by researchers at NYU Langone Health has found that exposure to certain chemicals used in plastic household items, particularly di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), is linked to over 356,000 global deaths from heart disease. The study, which analyzed population surveys and mortality data from 200 countries, found that the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific bore a disproportionate share of the death toll.
The chemicals, known as phthalates, are used in a range of products including cosmetics, detergents, solvents, plastic pipes, bug repellants, and food containers. Studies have shown that exposure to phthalates can increase the risk of conditions such as obesity, diabetes, fertility issues, and cancer.
Researchers estimated that DEHP exposure contributed to 356,238 deaths in 2018, representing around 13% of all global mortality from heart disease among men and women aged 55-64. The study found that countries with high levels of plastic production and limited manufacturing regulations were disproportionately affected.
India had the highest death count, followed by China and Indonesia. The researchers suggest that these countries face higher rates of exposure to phthalates due to their rapid industrialization and plastic consumption.
While the study did not find a direct link between DEHP and heart disease, it highlights the need for global regulations to reduce exposure to these toxins. The researchers plan to track how reductions in phthalate exposure may affect global mortality rates over time.
The study’s findings add to growing evidence that phthalates pose a significant threat to human health, and underscore the importance of addressing this issue through policy changes and public awareness campaigns.
Source: https://nyulangone.org/news/heart-disease-deaths-worldwide-linked-chemical-widely-used-plastics