Plastic Chemicals Linked to Preterm Births: A Growing Concern for Public Health
Plastic is an integral part of our daily lives, from food containers to lotions and toys. However, a new study published in the Lancet Planetary Health has revealed a disturbing link between chemicals commonly used in plastic products and tens of thousands of preterm births in the United States each year. The study’s findings shed light on the potential dangers of these chemicals and the urgent need for stricter regulations to protect public health.
The researchers behind the study examined national data on 5,000 mothers to assess their daily exposure to phthalates, synthetic chemicals used in everyday items. The results were alarming, showing an increased risk of preterm birth, a phenomenon that has been on the rise in the U.S. The medical bills for these preterm babies over their lifetimes cost billions of dollars, highlighting the economic impact of this issue.
Phthalates are widely used in the production of plastics to make them more durable, bendable, and shiny. They can be found in various household items, including toys, Tupperware, and even food packaging. Despite regulations on these chemicals, the study suggests that their replacements may be just as harmful, as they are not thoroughly studied.
Dr. Leonardo Trasande, lead author of the study and director of NYU Langone Health’s Center for the Investigation of Environmental Health Hazards, emphasizes the need to address global plastic pollution. In a separate study conducted by Trasande, it was estimated that plastic exposure in 2018 alone resulted in $249 billion in disease costs in the U.S., excluding preterm birth. He argues that the chemical industry is profiting at the expense of people’s health and well-being.
While the study is observational and does not establish a causal relationship between plastics and preterm birth, it builds upon existing evidence and highlights the need for stronger regulations. Dr. Philip Landrigan, director of Boston College’s Program for Global Health and the Common Good, emphasizes the weakness of consumer protections against manufactured chemicals in the country. He believes that a fundamental revamping of chemical regulation is necessary to protect human health.
The American Chemistry Council, representing the plastics industry, argues that an association does not prove causation and criticizes studies like this for their lack of scientific quality. However, the study received funding from the National Institutes of Health and drew from a diverse national sample size, making its findings significant.
Phthalates can enter the body through the skin, ingestion, or inhalation. They disrupt hormones that act as chemical messengers, potentially influencing hormone regulation in pregnant mothers and fetuses. The study found links between the presence of phthalates and deviations in gestational age, birth length, and birthweight. In 2018 alone, it was estimated that over 56,000 preterm births in the U.S. were attributable to phthalate exposure in the womb. The economic costs over these children’s lifetimes could range from $1.6 billion to $8.1 billion.
The consequences of preterm births extend beyond economic costs. Babies born prematurely are at an increased risk of death, while children may face disabilities or disorders later in life. Minority women, particularly Black and Hispanic women, are at a higher risk of exposure and preterm birth.
Carmen Messerlian, a professor of reproductive epidemiology at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, stresses that there is a preventable cause of preterm birth that needs to be addressed. She believes that modifying our environment to decrease women’s risk of having a premature baby is crucial.
In light of these findings, Dr. Trasande recommends that parents reduce their use of plastic by opting for glass or stainless steel containers when storing food items. He also suggests avoiding packaged goods wrapped in plastic and opting for fresh food whenever possible. While it may be challenging to limit plastic use entirely, he believes that many plastic products are non-essential and can be avoided.
The study’s findings highlight the urgent need for stricter regulations on chemicals used in plastics. It is crucial to protect public health, especially for vulnerable populations, and address the preventable causes of preterm birth. As the evidence continues to mount, it is clear that action must be taken to minimize the potential harm caused by these chemicals and ensure a healthier future for all.
