Premature birth rates in America have steadily increased over the past few decades, sparking concern among healthcare professionals and families alike. Preterm birth is defined as the delivery of an infant before 37 weeks of pregnancy, and it can lead to a range of health complications for both the baby and mother.
Phthalates, a group of chemicals commonly used to soften plastics in household products, have been linked to health issues like childhood cancer risk and fertility problems. A recent study published in The Lancet Planetary Health adds to the growing body of research connecting phthalates to preterm births.
The study examined over 5,000 mothers and measured 20 different metabolites in their urine at various points during pregnancy. Unlike previous studies, this research looked at a wide range of phthalates in the most diverse group of mothers studied so far. The results showed that the most commonly used phthalate, DEHP, was significantly associated with preterm birth. Mothers with high levels of DEHP were about 50% more likely to experience preterm birth compared to those with low levels.
Even more concerning, the study found that alternative chemicals recently used to replace DEHP were associated with even higher rates of preterm birth. This suggests that the increase in preterm births in the United States over the past decade may be due to these replacements. The researchers highlight that these replacements are being used in food packaging.
Lead author Leonardo Trasande emphasizes the need for regulators to take action based on these findings. Safer alternatives to phthalates exist, but companies often avoid them due to higher costs. Instead, they make slight adjustments to chemical compounds to evade regulations targeting problematic substances.
Trasande calls for the regulation of phthalates as a class rather than individually addressing them one by one. Without comprehensive regulation, he warns that similar study results will likely surface in the future as new chemicals are introduced as replacements.
A few years back, some studies called out brands for swapping out BPA (Bisphenol A) with a substance called BPS (Bisphenol S). BPS is a type of plastic used to make hard plastic items and synthetic fibers for clothing. The sneaky part? Companies used this alternative chemical to create the illusion of being BPA-free without consumers even realizing it.
But here’s the thing, BPS can be found in certain paper receipts and protective coatings inside food cans. Another related chemical Bisphenol F is also found in liners, lacquers, adhesives, plastics, and the coatings of drinks and food cans. It even makes its way into dental materials like restorative materials and prosthetic devices.
The truth is, that most consumers aren’t aware of these chemicals or their potential risks. But we must pay attention because knowledge is power when it comes to our health and well-being.
This study serves as a clear reminder that it’s time for regulators and companies alike to prioritize public health and safety over cost considerations when it comes to phthalates and their alternatives.
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