PHTHALATE ESTERS - SPREAD, EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY
Journal Title: Българско списание за обществено здраве (Bulgarian Journal of Public Health) - Year 2014, Vol 0, Issue 2
Abstract
Phthalates (phthalate esters) are a large group of chemical compounds - phthalic acid esters of the general chemical structure obtained by the reaction of phthalic anhydride with alcohols. They are mainly used as plasticizers for plastic materials, in solvents, in cosmetics and in other applications. Phthalates are not covalently bonded to the molecules of the plastic, and they are easily separated from it by the processes of direct release, migration, evaporation, leaching, and abrasion. This is a prerequisite for their penetration into the human organisms in various ways - ingestion, inhalation and dermal absorption and even intravenously. The contribution of the different sources in the complex exposure to phthalates is unknown. Available toxicological studies are predominantly carried out on animals, but due to the similarities in the metabolism, phthalates are suspected to cause health problems in humans as well. Their acute toxicity is very low, but subchronic and chronic toxicity of phthalates and their metabolites are significant. In animal studies, phthalates have been identified as endocrine disruptors, causing a number of symptoms, called “phthalate syndrome,” mainly because of their effects on the male reproductive system. Studies in young girls have also shown a possible connection between the shortening of pregnancy, the development of breast cancer and exposure to phthalates. Exposure to phthalates relates to all age groups. In the absence of the relevant human studies is difficult to fully assess the risk of these compounds to the human health. In the European Union, legislative measures to restrict the content of phthalates in packaged food and beverages, children’s personal care products and toys are available, as well as measures to regulate the industrial use of phthalates. A clear statement of the ingredients of the products would allow consumers to choose the appropriate alternatives.
Authors and Affiliations
Valentina Christova-Bagdassarian, Terry Vrabcheva, Julieta Tishkova
Keywords
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