Pthalate: Biological Effects
Phthalate and its derivatives are very common in everyday plastics and personal care products. Diethyl phthalate (DEP) can be found in packaging materials and cosmetic products, while Monoethyl phthalate (MEP) is associated with chewing gum. Studies have found high levels of MEP in people who chew gum multiple times throughout the week, with DEP also present due to the gum's packaging. Some effects of these exposures are headaches, long lasting coughs, and diarrhea but there are no clear indications of how much is too much. In mothers, an increase of MEP exposure is associated with increased amounts of hormone problems.
Another side effect of phthalate exposure is eczema or dermatitis in women and children. In women, it is speculated that phthalate binds to estrogen receptors limiting the reception of estrogen. Children in the first 7 years of their lives after prenatal exposure to phthalate show a correlation to increased risks of developing asthma and dermatitis. Exposure to phthalate during prenatal development results in reduced levels of immunoglobulin E, leading to children with suppressed immune systems and abnormal cell proliferation and lymphocyte development.
Phthalate exposure is also correlated to changes in thyroid secretion levels, which possibly affect the growth of the baby due to the importance of thyroid hormones in maintaining normal fetal development. Exposure to phthalate during the second trimester is associated with “low birth outcomes” such as low birthweight, which can be an indicator of morbidity and the overall health. High exposure during the second and third trimester resulted in birth heights and head circumferences below the median value.
The significance of theses associations often differs between studies, so the information should be taken with caution rather than as fact until further research is done. In the mean time, being aware of what you are consuming and exposing yourself to during all life stages, especially pregnancy is the first step to a healthy life and child. Paying attention to the chemical contents of your personal care products, like nail polish, lotions and creams, face washes and hair products will also go a long way in avoiding exposures.