Face mask-A potential source of phthalate exposure for human

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• Face masks, essential for combating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), are typically polymer-based.
• Phthalates, common polymer additives, raise concerns about potential human exposure through mask usage.
• Limited data exists on the prevalence and health risks associated with phthalates in face masks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the occurrence of twelve phthalates in face mask samples globally.
• To assess human exposure levels and associated health risks, including carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects.
• To evaluate the significance of face masks as a source of phthalate exposure.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of twelve phthalates in 56 face mask samples from various countries.
• Calculation of Estimated Daily Intakes (EDIs) for phthalates from mask usage.
• Risk assessment for non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic effects based on detected phthalate levels.

Main Results:

• Phthalates were detected in all analyzed mask samples, with total concentrations ranging from 115 to 37,700 ng/g.
• EDIs for phthalates from masks varied from 3.71 to 639 ng/kg-bw/day, with toddlers exhibiting 4-5 times higher exposure than adults.
• While non-carcinogenic risks were within safe limits, 89.3% of samples indicated potential carcinogenic effects.

Conclusions:

• Face masks represent a significant, previously underestimated source of human phthalate exposure.
• The potential carcinogenic risk associated with phthalates in masks warrants attention and risk management.
• Regulation of additive types and concentrations in face mask manufacturing is necessary to mitigate health risks.