Chemicals in plastics linked to newborn deaths, premature births: Research
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Chemicals in plastics (DEHP and DINP) are linked to newborn deaths and premature births in new research.
How This Affects You
Pregnant women and infants may face health risks from phthalates in common plastic products, food packaging, and medical devices already used in their homes.
AI Summary
A new study published in eClinicalMedicine has linked two widely used plastic softening chemicals—DEHP and DINP—to newborn deaths and premature births. These phthalates are common additives in flexible plastics found in consumer products, food packaging, and medical devices. The research adds to growing scientific concern about chemical exposure during pregnancy and early infancy, periods when developing fetuses and newborns are particularly vulnerable to toxins. The findings could influence discussions around chemical regulation and pregnant women's exposure to everyday plastic products. Phthalates have been restricted in some applications in the U.S. and Europe but remain widely used globally in manufacturing.
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