Chemicals Found In Food Packaging May Increase Miscarriage Risk
New findings published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology reveal that exposure to certain substances commonly found in food packaging can increase the risk of miscarriage.
During the study, researchers tested urine samples in 132 women who had miscarriages and 172 healthy pregnant women in China. Findings revealed that pregnancy loss was linked to higher levels of urinary phthalate metabolites from diethyl phthalate (DEP), di-isobutyl phthalate (DiBP) di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP).
Previous studies have shown how long-term exposure to low levels of phthalates can be harmful to lab animals' health and can even increase the risk of pregnancy loss. However, there is little epidemiological evidence of phthalates' effects regarding women and exposure who are not involved in high-risk environment through factory work.
Furthermore, the United States has also banned six phthalates from use in certain products that are specifically made for young children. However, many ingredients still include them, including certain vinyl flooring, soaps, , medical tubes and other items, as well.
And while researchers note how the study doesn't prove that phthalates themselves are responsible for pregnancy loss, the association should be further investigated.
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