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Published on: June 2, 2023
[Phthalate exposure in the neonatal intensive care unit]
C J Fischer Fumeaux1, C Stadelmann Diaw1, D Palmero2
1Service de néonatologie, département médico-chirurgical de pédiatrie, université de Lausanne, CHU Vaudois, avenue Pierre-Decker 2, CH-1011 Lausanne, Suisse.
Insights
Plasticizers like di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) are concerning for infant health, especially in neonatal intensive care units. This study found DEHP in 6% of products, primarily respiratory devices, with limited labeling.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Neonatal Care
Context:
- Growing concerns regarding the long-term health effects of plasticizers, particularly phthalates, on fertility.
- Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) is utilized in medical devices, posing risks to vulnerable newborns in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
- NICU environments present unique exposure scenarios for infants due to medical equipment.
Purpose:
- To identify, quantify, and characterize sources of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) within a neonatal intensive care unit.
- To assess the prevalence of DEHP in medical products used for neonates.
- To evaluate the availability of information regarding DEHP content on product packaging.
Summary:
- A comprehensive review of products in a NICU identified DEHP in 6% of all items and 10% of plastic items.
- Respiratory support devices were the most common source, accounting for 71% of DEHP-containing products.
- Information regarding DEHP content was largely absent from product packaging, hindering risk assessment.
Impact:
- Highlights the significant presence of DEHP in NICU environments, particularly in respiratory equipment.
- Underscores the need for improved product labeling and transparency regarding chemical content.
- Emphasizes the necessity for further research into the health impacts of early-life DEHP exposure and the development of safer alternatives.
Abstract:
There are growing concerns on long-term health consequences, notably on fertility rates, of plasticizers such as phthalates. While di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) is currently used in several medical devices, newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit are both more exposed and more vulnerable to DEHP. The objectives of this study were to identify, count, and describe possible sources of DEHP in a neonatal care unit. Our method consisted in the listing and the inspection of the information on packaging, complemented by contact with manufacturers when necessary. According to the results, 6% of all products and 10% of plastic products contained some DEHP; 71% of these involved respiratory support devices. A vast majority of the items showed no information on the content of DEHP. Further research is needed, particularly to determine the effects of such an early exposure and to study and develop safer alternatives.
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