Chemical found in common plastics linked to heart disease mortality in new study
Chemicals found in plastics have long been suspected to pose health risks, and a recent study has added heart disease mortality to the list of potential dangers. Researchers at NYU Langone Health have found that exposure to chemicals in common household items could have contributed to over 356,000 heart disease-related deaths in 2018 alone, accounting for more than 13% of such deaths worldwide in the 55 to 64 age group.
The study, published in Lancet eBioMedicine, focused on the risks associated with phthalates, a type of chemical found in cosmetics, detergents, solvents, plastic pipes, bug repellents, and other products. Specifically, the researchers looked at di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), commonly used to make softer plastics like food containers and medical equipment. DEHP has been linked to inflammation in the heart’s arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke.
To assess DEHP exposure levels, the researchers analyzed data from population surveys across 200 countries and territories. Mortality data was obtained from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, revealing regions with the highest heart disease death tolls linked to phthalates, including the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific.
Dr. Trasande, the senior author of the study, emphasized the need for global regulations to reduce exposure to these toxins, especially in areas undergoing rapid industrialization and increased plastic consumption. The study’s lead author, Sara Hyman, stressed the urgent need for action to address the dangers posed by phthalates.
Inflammation is a known risk factor for coronary artery disease, according to Dr. Jasdeep Dalawari, an interventional cardiologist. He explained that the study suggests microplastics could interfere with internal signals that regulate artery function, potentially leading to adverse cardiovascular effects.
Renato Apolito, a medical director at a New Jersey medical center, highlighted the known health risks associated with manmade plastic products and emphasized the importance of reducing exposure to harmful chemicals.
While the study’s longitudinal and observational nature comes with limitations, it serves as a crucial starting point for further research into the effects of phthalates on human health. Future studies will explore the impact of reducing phthalate exposure on mortality rates and investigate the chemicals’ role in other health concerns.
As policymakers and researchers consider the implications of this study, it is essential to prioritize public health policies and preventive measures to minimize the risks associated with exposure to harmful chemicals in plastics. Ultimately, a better understanding of these connections will inform regulations and practices to safeguard human health.
