Research indicates that chemicals present in plastics may pose several health risks, and now there’s evidence linking them to increased mortality rates from heart disease.
In a study conducted by NYU Langone Health, it was discovered that everyday exposure to certain household chemicals could contribute to the deaths of over 356,000 individuals from heart disease in 2018 alone, a figure that accounts for more than 13% of heart disease-related fatalities globally among people aged 55 to 64.
Microplastics found in the brain and other organs
A press release from NYU shared that the findings, published in the Journal Lancet Ebiomedicine on April 29, looked specifically at the dangers of phthalates—chemicals commonly found in products like cosmetics, detergents, and plastic containers.
The research focused on a particular phthalate known as Di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (DEHP), which is frequently used to create softer plastics, such as those used in food storage and medical devices. Exposure to DEHP is linked to inflammation in coronary arteries, thereby heightening the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Microplastics from chewing gum
Researchers assessed DEHP levels by analyzing census data from numerous individuals across 200 countries. Mortality statistics came from the Health Measurement and Evaluation Institute, a U.S. research organization that compiles global health data and recognizes public health trends.
“Our results highlight the urgent need for global regulations to reduce exposure to these toxins.”
Sarah Heyman, a scientist at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and a co-author of the study, remarked that their work underscores the significant dangers of phthalates as contributors to major causes of death worldwide.
Notably, regions like the Middle East, South Asia, and East Asia show the highest rates of heart disease fatalities linked to phthalate exposure.
Coronary artery disease and inflammation
Dr. Trasande commented on the urgent need for policies to reduce toxin exposure, especially in rapidly industrializing areas where plastic use is soaring. He noted that inflammation is a known risk factor for coronary artery disease, as noted by Dr. Jasdeep Dalawari, a cardiologist based in Illinois. He explained how the body releases various chemicals and hormones to manage arterial function.
Dr. Dalawari pointed out that microplastics could potentially disrupt these internal signals, impacting arterial functions.
The need for further exploration
While emphasizing the ubiquity of microplastics in daily products, it’s crucial to understand their long-term health implications. Renato Apolito, a medical director, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that artificial plastic products are often made with chemicals that prioritize cost and convenience over safety. Many doctors reportedly avoid plastic containers for food and beverages, opting for glass alternatives instead.
However, Apolito also noted that the study has limitations; its observational design means it primarily identifies correlations rather than establishing causation. He acknowledged that various lifestyle factors could affect the data.
Senior author Dr. Trasande also mentioned the study’s shortcomings, noting it doesn’t conclusively link DEHP to heart disease, nor does it explore the mortality rates of other age groups, suggesting the actual toll could be higher.
Future research plans include analyzing how reducing phthalate exposure may influence mortality rates, while also exploring the role of these chemicals in other health challenges.
“Microplastics are widely present in the various products we use every day, and it is important to understand the long-term impact on human health.”
This investigation was supported by the National Institutes of Health. Additionally, Dr. Dalawari suggested researchers should consider other factors, such as air pollution, which could also contribute to coronary artery disease risk.
Ultimately, understanding the intersection of environmental concerns, regulation, and genetic factors may provide a clearer picture of public health moving forward.
