Plastic Chemicals Linked to Millions of Preterm Births Worldwide

A study published in eClinicalMedicine has provided the first global estimate of the health burden from preterm births linked to exposure to phthalate plasticizers—chemicals widely used in everyday products.

In 2018, exposure to di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) was associated with an estimated 1.97 million preterm births—over 8% of cases globally—along with 74,000 deaths and nearly 6.7 million years of life lost. A commonly used substitute, diisononyl phthalate (DiNP), showed a similarly alarming impact, contributing to 1.88 million preterm births, 64,000 deaths, and 5.7 million years of life lost.

Phthalates are commonly found in plastic packaging, personal care, and cleaning products, and are linked to cancer, neurological harm, and reproductive toxicity. Researchers warn that replacing one harmful chemical with similar alternatives may not reduce risk, highlighting the urgent need for stricter, broader regulation to limit exposure and protect public health.

03-04-2026