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Phthalates

All articles tagged with #phthalates

Toxins Detected in Widely Used Headphones Raise Health Concerns
technology7 days ago

Toxins Detected in Widely Used Headphones Raise Health Concerns

A TOX-Free Project study tested 81 headphones and earbuds from brands including Bose, Samsung, and Sennheiser, finding bisphenol A in 98% of samples and bisphenol S in over 75%, along with phthalates and other flame retardants. These chemicals are linked to cancer, neurodevelopmental problems, and hormone disruption; long-term exposure—especially with sweat during use—may pose health risks. The research notes no immediate danger but highlights potential long-term concerns, and mentions Apple has regulated chemicals on its list. The project aims to improve detection of chemicals in consumer products using nanotechnology.

health-and-medicine7 days ago

Cancer-Linked Chemicals Found in Nearly All Tested Headphones

A European study tested 81 headphones and found BPA in 98% of samples and its substitute BPS in more than three-quarters, with these chemicals migrating into wearers through skin contact—especially with in-ear models—raising concerns about long‑term risks like endocrine disruption, feminization, early puberty, cancer and organ damage. Regulators and manufacturers are urged to demand safer materials and transparency, with TOX-Free LIFE for All pushing bans; Bose and Panasonic were contacted for comment.

Most headphones harbor hazardous chemicals that can migrate into the body
technology9 days ago

Most headphones harbor hazardous chemicals that can migrate into the body

A European study found BPA in 98% of tested headphones and its BPA substitute BPS in more than 75%, along with phthalates and other flame retardants; researchers warn these chemicals can migrate from headphone materials into sweat and be absorbed through the skin, potentially causing endocrine disruption and long‑term health risks, with no brand proven completely safe.

Hazardous Chemicals Detected in Every Headphone Sample
health9 days ago

Hazardous Chemicals Detected in Every Headphone Sample

A study by the ToxFREE LIFE for All project tested 81 headphones (in-ear and over-ear) and found hazardous substances in every pair, with BPA detected in 98% of samples and other toxins like phthalates, chlorinated paraffins, and brominated flame retardants across brands from Bose to Shein/Temu; researchers warn these chemicals can migrate into the body, especially with heat and sweat accelerating skin exposure.

health-and-consumer-safety4 months ago

Warning: 60 Millions de consommateurs identifies four olive oils to avoid

France's 60 Millions de consommateurs tested 24 popular extra-virgin olive oils and found some samples contaminated with plasticizers and mineral oils, linked to packaging and processing. Four brands showed elevated levels of harmful phthalates, prompting advice to consumers to choose oils in glass or metal containers, check harvest dates, and store in cool, dark places to reduce exposure. The findings highlight the importance of packaging, storage, and purchasing habits in minimizing chemical intake from olive oil.

Experts Warn of Health Risks from Hidden Chemicals in Perfumes
health1 year ago

Experts Warn of Health Risks from Hidden Chemicals in Perfumes

Scientists warn about the health risks of phthalates, chemicals used in perfumes and other self-care products to prolong scent. Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors linked to developmental issues in children and cardiovascular disease in adults. Despite being banned in children's toys, they remain prevalent in many consumer products. Experts recommend avoiding added fragrances and opting for phthalate-free alternatives to reduce exposure. While some argue the data on human harm is insufficient, animal studies suggest significant risks, prompting calls for more cautious consumer choices.

health1 year ago

The Hidden Dangers of Everyday Fragrances

Research is raising concerns about phthalates, chemicals found in many personal care products like perfumes and nail polishes, due to their potential health risks, including insulin resistance and impaired neurodevelopment. Experts recommend reducing exposure to these endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) by using phthalate-free products and minimizing processed food consumption. While critics argue the data isn't conclusive, studies in animals suggest EDCs can cause significant health issues, potentially affecting future generations.

"General Mills Urged to Eliminate Toxic Chemicals from Food Products"
consumer-safety1 year ago

"General Mills Urged to Eliminate Toxic Chemicals from Food Products"

Consumer Reports has delivered a petition with over 30,000 signatures to General Mills, urging the company to eliminate plastic chemicals, specifically phthalates, from its food products. Tests revealed concerning levels of these chemicals in various General Mills brands, including Annie's, Yoplait, Cheerios, Green Giant, and Progresso. Phthalates, used to make plastics flexible, have been linked to serious health risks. General Mills asserts that their products meet regulatory standards and that they regularly review their ingredients and suppliers.

"Link Between Plastics on Everyday Products and Rise in Premature Births Revealed in Study"
health2 years ago

"Link Between Plastics on Everyday Products and Rise in Premature Births Revealed in Study"

A new study suggests that synthetic chemicals called phthalates, commonly found in everyday products like vinyl flooring, furniture, personal care items, and food packaging, may be contributing to an increase in premature births in the United States. The study, published in Lancet Planetary Health, found that nearly 57,000 preterm births in 2018 could potentially be linked to phthalates, which are known to act as hormone disruptors and impact the placenta during pregnancy. The American Chemistry Council, representing the plastics industry, has disputed the study's claims, stating that the association does not establish a causal relationship.

"Plastics and Preterm Births: The Link You Need to Know"
health2 years ago

"Plastics and Preterm Births: The Link You Need to Know"

A new study published in Lancet Planetary Health suggests that phthalates, synthetic chemicals found in plastics, may be linked to tens of thousands of premature births in the U.S. each year, leading to significant lifetime medical costs. Exposure to these chemicals has been associated with hormone disruption and various health concerns. The study found that phthalate exposure was associated with lower gestational age and increased risk of premature birth, particularly with certain types of phthalates used as replacements for DEHP. The findings highlight the need for regulating phthalates as a class and suggest reducing the use of plastic whenever possible to mitigate health risks.

"Plastic Chemicals Linked to 10% of US Premature Births: Study"
health-environment2 years ago

"Plastic Chemicals Linked to 10% of US Premature Births: Study"

A major study has found that one in 10 premature births in the US may be linked to pregnant women's exposure to phthalates, chemicals commonly found in plastic products. These chemicals, known as hormone disruptors, can lead to early labor and birth. The study estimated that nearly 10% of premature births in the US in 2018 could be attributed to phthalate exposure, with associated medical and social costs ranging from $1.6 to $8.1 billion. The researchers called for global efforts to reduce plastic production and regulate phthalates as a group, while advising people to minimize exposure by avoiding plastic-wrapped food and phthalate-containing personal care products.

"Plastic Chemicals Linked to Rise in Preterm Births, Doctors Warn"
health-environment2 years ago

"Plastic Chemicals Linked to Rise in Preterm Births, Doctors Warn"

A new study suggests that synthetic chemicals called phthalates, found in everyday products from food containers to shampoo, may be linked to the rise in preterm births in the US, with one of the most well-established phthalates, DEHP, being a major contributor. The study estimates that phthalates were responsible for 57,000 premature US births in 2018. While the American Chemistry Council disputes the connection, experts warn of the potential health risks associated with phthalates, including cancer, infertility, birth defects, obesity, asthma, heart disease, and diabetes. Calls for regulatory action to limit phthalates in food packaging and consumer products are being made to address the public health concerns.

"Plastic Chemicals: A Major Contributor to Preterm Births, Study Finds"
health2 years ago

"Plastic Chemicals: A Major Contributor to Preterm Births, Study Finds"

A study has found that one in 10 premature births in the United States may be linked to pregnant women's exposure to phthalates, chemicals commonly found in plastic products. These chemicals, known as hormone disruptors, can lead to early labor and birth. The study estimated that nearly 56,600 preterm births in the US in 2018 could have been linked to phthalate exposure, with resulting medical and social costs estimated to be between $1.6 and $8.1 billion. Researchers suggest reducing plastic production and avoiding phthalate exposure to mitigate these health risks.