Di-2-ethylhexyl Phthalate (DEHP)

Di-2-ethylhexyl Phthalate (DEHP) Latest News

A recent study in The Lancet eBioMedicine found a strong correlation between exposure to Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and increased cardiovascular mortality, especially in the 55–64 age group.

About Di-2-ethylhexyl Phthalate (DEHP) 

• Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is a synthetic chemical primarily used as a plasticiser, meaning it is added to plastics to make them more flexible, durable, and resistant to breaking.
• DEHP is a colourless, oily liquid with little to no odour, and is soluble in oils but not in water. It is widely used in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics.
• Alternate names for DEHP include Dioctyl Phthalate (DOP) and Bis(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate (BEHP), often found in industrial and consumer products.
• DEHP is prevalent in everyday items, such as food packaging materials, medical devices (like IV tubes), children’s toys, shampoos, lotions, and vinyl flooring, making human exposure widespread and continuous.
• In 2018, exposure to DEHP was linked to around 356,238 global deaths in that age group, accounting for over 13% of global cardiovascular deaths for individuals aged 55–64.
• India accounted for the highest number of DEHP-related cardiovascular deaths globally, with an estimated 103,587 deaths, nearly one-third of the global burden.
• DEHP is known to cause inflammation in coronary arteries, thereby increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes over time.
• Apart from cardiovascular issues, DEHP exposure is associated with multiple health disorders, including:
  • Obesity and Type 2 diabetes
  • Hormonal disruptions and infertility
  • Increased risk of certain cancers
  • Premature birth and developmental disorders in infants
• About 75% of the global DEHP-related deaths occurred in regions like Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific, highlighting the disproportionate burden on developing countries.

Di-2-ethylhexyl Phthalate (DEHP) FAQs

Q1. What is Di-2-ethylhexyl Phthalate (DEHP)?
Ans. DEHP is a phthalate used as a plasticiser to make plastics, especially PVC, more flexible and durable.

Q2. Why is DEHP considered hazardous?
Ans. DEHP is classified as an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) and may cause reproductive and developmental issues in humans and animals.

Q3. In which products is DEHP commonly found?
Ans. DEHP is widely used in medical devices, food packaging, building materials, and personal care products.

Source: DTE