Study investigates relationship between phthalate exposure and high blood pressure, related complications during pregnancy
Published 2024-06-07 · Original archive entry · Explore research explainers
Higher exposure to certain chemicals called phthalates is linked to an increased risk of pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia and eclampsia (PE/E) and other hypertensive or high blood pressure disorders, according to a study funded by the NIH Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes program. Here are the key findings:
Doubling the levels of a specific molecule linked to exposure to phthalates found in PVC plastics and insect repellents—mono (3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP)—increased the odds of developing PE/E by 12% and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy by 2%. Being exposed to higher levels of multiple phthalates increased the odds of PE/E by 27%. Doubling the levels of other molecules (like those related to exposure to phthalates found in some plastics and personal care products) increased the odds of developing PE/E by 8% to 11%. These risks were generally higher in pregnancies involving female fetuses.
Read a research summary about this study here.
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Doubling the levels of a specific molecule linked to exposure to phthalates found in PVC plastics and insect repellents—mono (3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP)—increased the odds of developing PE/E by 12% and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy by 2%. Being exposed to higher levels of multiple phthalates increased the odds of PE/E by 27%. Doubling the levels of other molecules (like those related to exposure to phthalates found in some plastics and personal care products) increased the odds of developing PE/E by 8% to 11%. These risks were generally higher in pregnancies involving female fetuses.
Read a research summary about this study here.
END