Di-2-ethylhexyl Phthalate : Increased Cardiovascular Mortality
A recent study in The Lancet eBioMedicine found a strong correlation between exposure to Di-2-ethylhexyl Phthalate (DEHP) and increased cardiovascular mortality, especially in the 55–64 age group.
- Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is a synthetic chemical primarily used as a plasticiser, meaning it is added to plastics to make them more flexible, durable, and resistant to breaking.
- DEHP is a colourless, oily liquid with little to no odour, and is soluble in oils but not in water. It is widely used in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics.
- Alternate names for DEHP include Dioctyl Phthalate (DOP) and Bis(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate (BEHP), often found in industrial and consumer products.
- DEHP is prevalent in everyday items, such as food packaging materials, medical devices (like IV tubes), toys, shampoos, lotions, and vinyl flooring, making human exposure widespread and continuous.
- In 2018, exposure to DEHP was linked to around 356,238 global deaths in that age group, accounting for over 13% of global cardiovascular deaths for individuals aged 55–64.
- India accounted for the highest number of DEHP-related cardiovascular deaths globally, with an estimated 103,587 deaths, nearly one-third of the global burden.
- DEHP is known to cause inflammation in coronary arteries, thereby increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes over time.
- Apart from cardiovascular issues, DEHP exposure is associated with multiple health disorders, including:
- Obesity and Type 2 diabetes
- Hormonal disruptions and infertility
- Increased risk of certain cancers
- Premature birth and developmental disorders in infants
- About 75% of the global DEHP-related deaths occurred in regions like Asia, the Middle East and the Pacific, highlighting the disproportionate burden on developing countries.
