95% risk to human health linked to everyday plastics, according to a world-first study.

World-first study finds everyday plastics pose 95% risk to human health. Researchers from the University of Adelaide and the Minderoo Foundation investigated five plastic-associated chemicals (bisphenols, phthalates, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, polychlorinated biphenyls, and polyfluoroalkyl substances) used in various products. The study, published in the Annals of Global Health, analyzed 52 systematic reviews involving over 900 meta-analyses on 1.5 million individuals, revealing statistically significant evidence for harm to human health. The chemicals, found in items such as drinks cans, food containers, and cyclist shorts, have been linked to health impacts including endometriosis, miscarriages, polycystic ovarian syndrome, loss of IQ points, high blood pressure, obesity, bronchitis, type 2 diabetes, heart attacks, strokes, and cancers. The researchers call for stricter regulation of plastic producers and the production of safer materials, as well as requiring manufacturers to provide clear safety information for their products.

August 19, 2024
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