A sweeping review from NYU Langone Health highlights the lasting health risks of everyday plastic exposure, particularly during childhood. Published online Sept. 21 in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, the review links common chemicals in plastics to heart disease, infertility, asthma, and even brain development issues.
The researchers examined hundreds of studies covering thousands of pregnant mothers, fetuses, and children, focusing on three main chemical groups: phthalates (which make plastics flexible), bisphenols (which provide rigidity), and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS, which resist heat and water).
Key Findings
- Early-life exposure to these chemicals is associated with chronic inflammation, hormone disruption, and impaired brain development.
- Studies suggest links to IQ loss, autism, ADHD, obesity, and cardiovascular disease later in life.
- Everyday items such as food packaging, cosmetics, and receipts are common sources of exposure.
“Plastics play a role in the early origins of many chronic diseases that reverberate into adolescence and adulthood,” said Leonardo Trasande, MD, lead author and pediatrician at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. He emphasizes that limiting exposure is crucial for lifelong health.
Reducing Exposure
The review outlines practical steps for families:
- Replace plastic containers with glass or stainless steel.
- Avoid microwaving or dishwashing plastic items.
- Educate children and communities on safer alternatives.
Clinicians are encouraged to guide parents and collaborate with schools and organizations to reduce exposure.
Policy Implications
The authors also call for stricter regulatory measures, particularly targeting nonessential plastics in low-income communities. The review coincides with discussions on the United Nations’ Global Plastics Treaty, which aims to cap plastic production globally.
Trasande warns that health care costs from plastic exposure in the U.S. alone could reach $250 billion annually, highlighting the urgency of regulatory action.
Balancing Benefits and Risks
While the study underscores the risks of unnecessary plastic use, it notes that plastic remains essential in medical settings, such as in ventilators, feeding tubes, and masks. The findings advocate for careful, targeted reductions rather than complete elimination.
“By offering clear guidance and advocating for policy change, we can reduce plastic-related health risks without compromising its critical uses in medicine,” Trasande said.
