Daily exposure to chemicals commonly found in plastic household products may be linked to over 356,000 deaths from cardiovascular disease worldwide in 2018, according to a study published on Tuesday.
The research, featured in The Lancet eBioMedicine and led by scientists at NYU Langone Hospital in New York, focused on a phthalate chemical known as DEHP. This compound is widely used in the production of food containers, medical devices, and to soften plastic materials.
“DEHP exposure contributed to 356,238 deaths — over 13 per cent of all global cardiovascular deaths in 2018 among adults aged 55 to 64,” the study stated.
Around 75 per cent of these deaths occurred in the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific, according to the findings.
The authors highlighted that countries like India and China recorded higher fatality rates, likely due to “rapid industrialisation” and “a surge in plastic production with fewer manufacturing regulations compared to other regions”.
They emphasised the urgent need for international regulatory measures to curb exposure to phthalates.
“By drawing attention to the link between phthalates and a major global cause of death, our findings strengthen the already substantial evidence that these chemicals pose a serious threat to human health,” said lead researcher Sara Hyman.
Phthalates have long been recognised as “hormone disruptors” that interfere with the endocrine system. Previous studies have associated them with obesity, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and infertility.
These chemicals are found in thousands of everyday consumer goods, including plastic containers and packaging, personal care products, and children’s toys.
“When phthalates degrade into microscopic particles and are ingested, research has linked them to a heightened risk of conditions ranging from obesity and diabetes to fertility complications and cancer,” the study said.
Efforts to negotiate a global treaty on plastic pollution remain stalled, with a December meeting in Busan, South Korea ending without agreement. A follow-up session is scheduled to take place in Geneva from 5–14 August.