• A study in eBioMedicine links phthalate exposure to over 350,000 heart disease deaths globally in 2018, primarily impacting those aged 55-64.
• The study found that approximately 13% of cardiovascular deaths in the 55-64 age group worldwide were attributable to phthalates.
• The researchers urge for global regulations to reduce phthalate exposure, particularly in countries with expanding plastics industries and high plastic consumption.

A new study published in the journal eBioMedicine has revealed a significant link between exposure to phthalates, chemicals commonly found in plastics, food packaging, and personal care products, and an increased risk of death from heart disease. The study, conducted by researchers at NYU Langone Health, estimates that phthalates contributed to over 350,000 deaths globally in 2018, with a disproportionate impact on individuals aged 55-64. The findings highlight the potential dangers of widespread phthalate exposure and call for urgent global regulations to mitigate the risks, especially in regions with rapidly growing plastics industries.

• What: A study links phthalate exposure to increased risk of heart disease deaths.
• Who: Researchers from NYU Langone Health, led by Sara Hyman and Leonardo Trasande, conducted the study. Other experts like Tracey Woodruff and Mark Huffman provided comments.
• When: The study focused on data from 2018 and was published in eBioMedicine on April 29, 2025.
• Where: The study analyzed data from 200 countries and territories worldwide, with a focus on Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific, particularly India.

The study linking phthalates to heart disease deaths raises significant concerns about the widespread use of these chemicals in everyday products. While the study relies on statistical modeling and estimates, it adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that phthalates pose serious health risks. The geographical disparities in deaths, with higher rates in rapidly industrializing countries, highlight the need for targeted interventions and stricter regulations in these regions. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which phthalates contribute to heart disease and to identify effective strategies for reducing exposure.

By highlighting the connection between phthalates and a leading cause of death across the world, our findings add to the vast body of evidence that these chemicals present a tremendous danger to human health.

There is a clear disparity in which parts of the world bear the brunt of heightened heart risks from phthalates. 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.

This is an early step of trying to understand the magnitude of the problem. But, he added, there’s a need for far more studies to understand the relationship between phthalates and heart health, and what other factors might come into play.

The recent study linking phthalates to heart disease deaths underscores the urgent need for greater awareness and stricter regulation of these chemicals. While further research is needed to fully understand the extent of the risks, the findings highlight the potential dangers of widespread phthalate exposure, particularly in rapidly industrializing countries. Global efforts to reduce phthalate use and exposure are crucial for protecting public health and preventing future heart disease-related deaths.