Chemicals commonly found in everyday products may be contributing to the rise in premature births, according to a recent study published in the journal Lancet Planetary Health. The study, which analyzed data from the National Institutes of Health’s Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes program, suggests that nearly 57,000 preterm births occurred in the United States in 2018 due to these chemicals, known as phthalates.
Phthalates are synthetic chemicals that can act as hormone disruptors and impact the placenta during pregnancy. They are often added to consumer products to make plastic harder to break. Common sources of phthalates include vinyl flooring, furniture, shower curtains, rain and stain-resistant products, clothing, shoes, and personal care products such as shampoo, soap, hairspray, and nail polish.
Previous research has also linked phthalates to other health issues, including childhood obesity, cardiovascular problems, and cancer. In the new study, lead author Dr. Leonardo Trasande, the director of environmental pediatrics at NYU Langone Health, highlighted the association between a specific phthalate called Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) found in food packaging and preterm labor. The study suggests that DEHP and three similar chemicals could be responsible for 5% to 10% of all preterm births in 2018.
Dr. Trasande explained that phthalates can contribute to inflammation, which disrupts the placenta and triggers preterm labor. These findings provide a potential explanation for the increasing number of premature births in recent years.
However, the American Chemistry Council, representing the plastics industry, disputed the claims made in the study. They argued that establishing an association does not necessarily establish a causal relationship and criticized the study’s scientific quality, credibility, and reliability.
The implications of this study are significant as premature birth can lead to various health complications for the baby, including developmental delays, respiratory issues, and even long-term disabilities. It is crucial for further research to be conducted to fully understand the impact of phthalates on pregnancy and to develop strategies to minimize exposure to these chemicals.
In conclusion, the study suggests that chemicals found in everyday products, specifically phthalates, may contribute to the rise in premature births. These synthetic chemicals, commonly added to consumer products, can disrupt hormones and impact the placenta during pregnancy. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and develop measures to reduce exposure to phthalates, ultimately promoting healthier pregnancies and reducing the risk of premature births.
