Study Links Phthalates in Plastics to Heart Disease Deaths Worldwide

NEW YORK, NY—A recent study has revealed a troubling connection between synthetic chemicals known as phthalates and heart disease mortality worldwide. According to researchers from NYU Langone Health, phthalate exposure may have contributed to more than 10% of global deaths from heart disease among individuals aged 55 to 64 in 2018.

Phthalates are commonly found in a variety of consumer products, including food storage containers, cosmetics, and children’s toys. Dr. Leonardo Trasande, the study’s senior author and a professor at NYU’s Grossman School of Medicine, emphasized that these chemicals lead to inflammation in coronary arteries, exacerbating existing heart conditions.

“Phthalates contribute to inflammation and systemic inflammation in the coronary arteries, which can accelerate existing disease and lead to acute events including mortality,” Trasande explained.

The study estimated that in 2018, exposure to one type of phthalate, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), accounted for approximately 356,238 deaths globally. The research highlighted that the highest rates of DEHP-related heart disease fatalities occurred in India, Pakistan, and Egypt, reflecting a broader trend linked to significant plastic production in these regions.

Researchers collected health data and examined urine samples from populations across 200 countries, noting elevated levels of phthalates in those who suffered from heart disease. “There is a clear disparity in which parts of the world bear the brunt of heightened heart risks from phthalates,” Trasande said, calling for urgent global regulations to mitigate exposure.

In an email, David Andrews, acting chief science officer at the Environmental Working Group, commented on the findings, stating, “The new study underscores the potentially enormous health and economic burden of DEHP exposure.” He was not involved in the study but recognized the significance of its implications.

Phthalates are often added to consumer products to improve flexibility, durability, and fragrance longevity. Common exposure routes include breathing contaminated air and consuming food or drink that has come into contact with phthalate-laden plastics.

To minimize exposure, experts recommend opting for alternatives such as glass or stainless steel containers for food storage and avoiding microwaving food in plastic. Additionally, they advise using unscented personal care and cleaning products to limit chemical exposure. “Avoid plastics as much as you can,” Trasande advised, as he highlighted the urgency of addressing the public health implications of these chemicals.