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illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on CNN or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: A new global study has linked exposure to phthalates — synthetic chemicals commonly found in household plastics — to over 368,000 heart disease deaths worldwide in 2018 among adults aged 55–64
• Published in eBiomedicine, the study found that Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), a widely used plasticizer, significantly contributes to cardiovascular mortality by promoting systemic inflammation and disrupting hormonal systems
🔭 The context: Phthalates, often called “everywhere chemicals,” are prevalent in food packaging, personal care products, medical devices, and toys
• Previous research had already linked them to reproductive issues, cancer, and developmental problems
• The new study represents the first global estimate tying DEHP exposure directly to cardiovascular deaths, raising serious concerns about the cumulative health impacts of pervasive plastic use
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Beyond individual health risks, the ubiquity of plastics and their chemical additives heightens systemic sustainability challenges
• As plastics infiltrate food systems, oceans, and even human bodies, the environmental burden aligns with public health threats, emphasizing the need for regulatory reforms and innovation in sustainable materials to protect ecosystems and societies alike
⏭️ What's next: Policy discussions around stricter chemical regulations are expected to intensify globally, particularly concerning plastics used in consumer goods and food packaging
• Researchers urge consumers to minimize exposure by avoiding microwaving plastics, choosing glass or metal containers, and using unscented personal products
• Meanwhile, global regulatory bodies may reassess exposure thresholds for phthalates, with potential revisions anticipated over the next 12–18 months
💬 One quote: "By highlighting the connection between phthalates and a leading cause of death across the world, our findings add to the vast body of evidence that these chemicals present a tremendous danger to human health," — Sara Hyman, lead author of the study
📈 One stat: Phthalate exposure was linked to 10% of all global cardiovascular deaths among adults aged 55–64 in 2018, according to the study
See on illuminem's Data Hub™ the sustainability performance of LyondellBasell and its peers BASF, and Dow
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