#Chemicalexposure

A global study links common plastic chemicals, known as phthalates, to hundreds of thousands of heart disease deaths worldwide. Published in eBioMedicine, the researchers estimate that in 2018 phthalate exposure contributed to about 350,000 cardiovascular deaths, with the majority among adults aged 55 to 64. The findings highlight a potential public health threat from substances found in food packaging, toiletries, toys, and many household products.

For Thailand, the study resonates amid rapid industrialization, widespread consumption of processed foods, and rising plastic waste. Thai health experts note that environmental pollutants and non-communicable diseases are national priorities, making any potential chemical exposure a concern for millions of households.

A recent global study has raised alarm about the widespread use of phthalates—common chemicals found in everyday plastics—linking them to hundreds of thousands of heart disease deaths worldwide. The research, published this week in the journal eBioMedicine by a team at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine, estimates that in 2018, phthalate exposure contributed to 350,000 cardiovascular deaths, particularly among adults aged 55 to 64 years old. This translates to approximately 13% of heart disease deaths in that age group, underscoring the potential public health threat posed by chemicals commonly used in food packaging, toiletries, toys, and household products [NYTimes].