A shocking new global study has revealed that common chemicals found in everyday plastic products may be responsible for over 368,000 deaths from heart disease in just one year.
Researchers have linked synthetic chemicals called phthalates, found in many household items like food containers, shampoo, children’s toys and cosmetics, to a significant number of premature deaths due to heart-related illnesses.
What Are Phthalates?
Phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are man-made chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and long-lasting. These “everywhere chemicals” are found in:
Plastic food packaging and containers
Personal care products like shampoo, perfume, and makeup
Vinyl flooring and PVC pipes
Children’s toys
Medical devices like IV tubing
Furniture, automotive plastics, and even clothing
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people are commonly exposed to phthalates by breathing contaminated air or eating food that has touched plastic.
The Global Health Risk
A new study published in eBiomedicine has found that a specific phthalate — Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) — may have contributed to more than 368,000 deaths globally in 2018 from cardiovascular diseases in people aged 55 to 64.
Key findings from the study:
DEHP exposure may have been responsible for over 10% of global deaths from heart disease in that age group.
The highest death toll was in Africa (30%), followed by East Asia and the Middle East (25%).
This is the first global estimate of heart-related deaths linked to phthalate exposure.
“Phthalates contribute to inflammation in the coronary arteries, which can worsen existing heart disease and trigger deadly events,” said Dr Leonardo Trasande, senior author of the study and professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.
How Phthalates Affect the Body
Research shows that phthalates may:
Disrupt hormones – especially testosterone in men
Increase risk of heart disease
Cause birth defects, reproductive issues, and lower sperm counts
Be linked to childhood obesity, asthma, and certain cancers
California’s Proposition 65 already warns consumers that DEHP is linked to cancer, birth defects, and male reproductive harm.
Previous Research in the United States
Earlier studies led by Dr Trasande also found a serious risk among Americans:
Phthalate exposure may lead to 91,000 to 107,000 premature deaths each year among Americans aged 55 to 64.
The economic impact could be as much as $47 billion annually in lost productivity.
These findings remained consistent even when accounting for factors like existing medical conditions, diet, and exercise.
Limitations of the Study
Experts have praised the study but also pointed out some limitations.
“The authors used data from the US to estimate death rates in other countries, which may not always be accurate,” said David Andrews from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit that monitors chemical safety.
Different countries may have different levels of exposure and healthcare access, which could influence the results.
What the Industry Says
The American Chemistry Council, which represents the chemical industry, declined to comment directly on the study. However, they stated that their High Phthalates Panel continues to support the use of phthalates like DINP and DIDP, claiming they offer safety and performance benefits.
How You Can Protect Yourself and Your Family
Health experts say you can reduce your exposure to phthalates with simple lifestyle changes:
Tips to reduce phthalate exposure:
Avoid heating food in plastic containers – use glass or ceramic instead.
Don’t microwave or dishwash plastics – heat can release harmful chemicals.
Choose fragrance-free personal care products, cleaners, and detergents.
Use natural materials – glass, stainless steel, or wood for food storage.
Buy fresh or frozen food instead of processed or canned items.
Encourage regular handwashing – especially after handling plastics.
Avoid plastic items labelled with the recycling codes No. 3, No. 6, or No. 7.
Stay away from air fresheners that contain hidden chemical fragrances.
Final Thoughts
This new research adds to the growing concerns about the dangers of phthalates and their presence in our everyday lives. The connection between plastic chemicals and serious health risks, especially heart disease, should serve as a wake-up call for both consumers and manufacturers.
While governments and industries debate safety standards, you can take action today by making more mindful choices at home.
Sources:
eBiomedicine Journal (2025)
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
New York University Grossman School of Medicine
Environmental Working Group (EWG)
California Proposition 65
CNN Health (via study summary)