Plastic Chemicals Linked to Nearly Two Million Premature Births Globally
A new analysis by NYU Langone Health researchers reveals that exposure to phthalates, chemicals used to make plastic flexible, may have contributed to nearly two million premature births globally in 2018, along with 74,000 newborn deaths. Specifically, di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (DEHP) and diisononyl phthalate (DiNP) were linked to significant preterm birth numbers. The study highlights a disproportionate impact on regions like the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive, class-wide regulation of plastic additives.
A new global analysis conducted by NYU Langone Health researchers, published in eClinicalMedicine, links exposure to plastic chemicals, specifically phthalates like di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (DEHP) and diisononyl phthalate (DiNP), to a significant number of premature births worldwide. The study estimates that DEHP alone contributed to approximately 1.97 million preterm births in 2018, accounting for over 8 percent of the global total, and was also associated with 74,000 newborn deaths. DiNP, a common replacement for DEHP, showed a similar risk, linked to about 1.88 million preterm births.Phthalates are ubiquitous, found in cosmetics, detergents, and many household products, entering the body through food, air, and dust. This research provides the first global estimates of preterm births connected to DEHP exposure, highlighting regional disparities. The Middle East and South Asia are estimated to bear 54 percent of the associated illness, with Africa accounting for 26 percent, often with higher death tolls. The study's methodology involved combining data from national surveys and earlier research on phthalate exposure and preterm birth. Lead author Sara Hyman emphasized that reducing exposure, especially in vulnerable regions, could prevent early births. Senior author Dr. Leonardo Trasande warned against a 'Whac-A-Mole' approach to chemical regulation, advocating for stronger, class-wide oversight of plastic additives. While acknowledging limitations, such as not establishing direct causation and data uncertainty, the researchers affirm the substantial health burden posed by these chemicals, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive regulatory reform to address this widespread public health concern.
