A nationwide study of the controversial group of chemicals known as phthalates has shown human exposure is still high, despite bans.
Phthalates are used as plasticizers and solvents in a range of consumer products, from rain coats and flooring to children’s toys and shampoo. They have been linked to human health problems, most notably hormone disruption.
Urine analysis of 11,000 children and adults found that levels of three phthalates federally banned in children’s products have significantly decreased. But over the same time period, three other phthalates used in children’s products increased dramatically – one by as much as 149 percent.
This suggests that banned substances may be replaced by similar and equally toxic chemicals. In fact, DiNP – the phthalate that rose 149 percent – was just added to the State of California’s list of chemicals that cause cancer.
The study also showed that advocacy can be effective. Consumer groups have been very vocal about eliminating phthalates from cosmetics. As a result, the phthalate DEP, which is used in fragranced products, decreased 42 percent in the time period studied.
While the effectiveness of federal bans and advocacy is heartening, levels of many phthalates are still rising. And because manufacturers aren’t required to list ingredients on many of their products, consumers are often left in the dark.
If manufacturers are able to swap one harmful chemical for another, the problem is simply evolving rather than improving. Meaningful change will hinge on greater regulation, transparency, and accountability.
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Levels of Controversial Chemicals in Americans Fall—and Rise
Photo, taken on September 4, 2010, courtesy of Steven Depolo via Flickr.
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Earth Wise is a production of WAMC Northeast Public Radio. Support for Earth Wise comes from the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies in Millbrook, NY.