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April 29, 2025 – A new global analysis has revealed that daily exposure to a chemical widely used in plastic products may be responsible for more than 365,000 deaths from heart disease worldwide in a single year. The study, published in eBioMedicine and led by researchers at NYU Langone Health, highlights the significant health risks posed by di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), a type of phthalate used to make plastics softer and more flexible.
Key Findings
The research team analyzed health and environmental data from dozens of population surveys across 200 countries and territories, focusing on men and women aged 55 to 64. Their findings suggest that in 2018 alone, DEHP exposure contributed to 368,764 deaths-over 10% of all global heart disease mortality in this age group.
Notably, regions such as Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East bore a disproportionate share of the burden, accounting for about half of the total deaths. India reported the highest number of DEHP-linked heart disease deaths at 39,677, followed by Pakistan and Egypt.
The Hidden Dangers of Phthalates
Phthalates like DEHP are commonly found in everyday items such as food containers, medical equipment, cosmetics, detergents, and plastic pipes. When these chemicals break down, they can be ingested or absorbed by humans, potentially leading to a range of health problems. Previous studies have linked phthalate exposure to obesity, diabetes, fertility issues, cancer, and now, heart disease.
Researchers believe that DEHP exposure may trigger inflammation in the arteries of the heart, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes over time.
Economic and Global Impact
The study estimates the economic burden from DEHP-related heart disease deaths to be around $510 billion, with possible costs reaching as high as $3.74 trillion. The authors emphasize that countries undergoing rapid industrialization and increased plastic production-often with fewer manufacturing restrictions-face the highest risks.
“There is a clear disparity in which parts of the world bear the brunt of heightened heart risks from phthalates,” said study senior author Dr. Leonardo Trasande, Professor of Pediatrics at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. “Our results underscore the urgent need for global regulations to reduce exposure to these toxins, especially in areas most affected by rapid industrialization and plastic consumption.”
Next Steps in Research
The NYU research team plans to expand their investigations to track how reductions in phthalate exposure may affect global mortality rates and to study other health concerns linked to these chemicals, such as preterm birth.
Disclaimer
This article summarizes findings from a peer-reviewed study published in eBioMedicine and reported by Medical Xpress. While the study identifies a strong association between DEHP exposure and heart disease mortality, it does not prove that DEHP directly causes heart disease. The research focused on a specific age group and one type of phthalate, so the actual impact may be broader. Readers are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals for personal health advice and to refer to the original study for more detailed information.
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