A study by New York University found that daily exposure to phthalates (a group of chemicals used in plastic containers and makeup) could lead to around 100,000 deaths annually in older Americans.
These chemicals can be found in hundreds products like shampoo, clothes, toys and clothing. They are known to disrupt hormones, affecting the endocrine system.
According to the study published in Environmental Pollution, the toxins can be absorbed through these items. They are also linked with obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
New York University's Grossman school of Medicine conducted the research and included approximately 5,000 adults between 55-64. It found that people with higher levels of phthalates in their blood were more likely die from heart disease.
But, it did not seem that higher levels of cancer risk were associated with a greater chance of dying.
Leonardo Trasande, study lead author, said that his findings revealed that phthalate intake is associated with early death, especially in the case of heart disease.
"Until now we understood that chemicals can cause heart disease and death. But, the chemicals themselves have not been linked to death."
Trasande warned, however, that this study doesn't establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between phthalate poisoning and death. This is partly because of the complexity of the biological mechanisms.
"Our research shows that the toll this chemical has on society is much higher than we initially thought," Trasande stated, adding that "it is undeniably obvious that limiting exposure can help Americans' financial and physical well-being."
Studies have linked phthalates to over 10,000 deaths annually in men aged 18 and older, as well as a reduction of testosterone.
The study also found that the economic losses due to phthalates are between $40 billion-$47 billion higher than previously estimated.
Agence France-Presse
