Preterm birth

Preterm Birth

Phthalate exposure linked to preterm births: What are the risks?

A recent study has found a concerning link between phthalate exposure and preterm births. Phthalates are chemicals commonly found in everyday products such as plastics, personal care products, and medications. The study estimates that nearly 56,600 preterm births in the US in 2018 may be attributed to phthalate exposure. This alarming connection raises questions about the potential risks posed by these chemicals to pregnant women and their unborn babies.

The implications of this study are significant, with associated lifetime medical costs for these preterm births ranging from $1.6 billion to $8.1 billion. This underscores the importance of further research into the effects of phthalates on maternal and fetal health. Expectant mothers should be aware of the potential risks associated with phthalate exposure and take steps to minimize their contact with these chemicals to reduce the likelihood of preterm birth.