Understanding Phthalates and Their Link to Heart Disease Plus Tips to Reduce Exposure

Phthalates are chemicals found in many everyday plastic products. Recent research has shown that exposure to these chemicals may contribute to heart disease, a leading cause of death worldwide (1). This blog post breaks down the findings of a major study on phthalates and heart health in simple terms. It also offers practical tips to help you reduce your exposure to these harmful substances.

Plastic containers commonly containing phthalates

What Are Phthalates and Why Do They Matter?

Phthalates are chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and durable. You can find them in many products such as food packaging, toys, personal care items, toothbrushes, cosmetics, and household goods (CDC 2026). Because they are not tightly bound to plastics, phthalates can easily leak into the environment, food, or even your skin (Rowdhwal et al 2018). A well-known and studied phthalate, Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) has been studied extensively. DEHP is used as a plasticizer in many products, such as intravenous (IV) bags and tubing, umbilical artery catheters, blood bags and infusion tubing, enteral nutrition feeding bags, nasogastric tubes, and peritoneal dialysis bags, and is utilized in manufacturing a wide variety of consumer products, such as packed food and beverages; soft plastic products, such as toys and infant products (Earls et al., 2003). DEHP is also found in building and furniture materials, including furniture upholstery, mattresses, wall coverings, floor tiles, and vinyl flooring; and cosmetics and personal care products to carry fragrances (Koniecki et al., 2011, Dobrzyńska 2016).

The concern is that phthalates cause endocrine disruption, metabolic dysfunction, and oxidative stress (Rowdhwal et al., 2018, Wang and Qian 2021). These insults can lead to various health problems, including hormonal imbalance, reduced testosterone in males, impaired insulin resistance, thyroid disfunction, and obesity (Wang and Qian 2021, (Rowdhwal et al., 2018). DEHP has been linked to cancer, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists this chemical as a probable human carcinogen (EPA 2026). One study conducted by Yang and colleagues demonstrated that DEHP was linked to increased risk of male and female reproductive organ cancers (Yang et al., 2024).

The Link Between Phthalates and Heart Disease

A study published in eBioMedicine by Hyman S, Acevedo J, Giannarelli C, and others estimated how many deaths and years of life lost worldwide are linked to phthalate exposure. The researchers found that phthalates contribute significantly to cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes (Hyman et al 2025).

Here’s what the study revealed in simple terms (Hyman et al 2025):

• Phthalate exposure increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. 356,238 deaths globally were attributed to DEHP exposure, representing 13.497% of all cardiovascular deaths among individuals aged 55–64. The most pronounced effects were observed in the Middle East and South Asia.

• Hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide may be linked to phthalate exposure. The study estimated that a large number of premature deaths and 10.473 million among individuals aged 55–64 lost years of life are connected to these chemicals.

• Reducing exposure could save lives. The authors suggest that by limiting contact with phthalates, people could lower their risk of heart disease and improve overall health.

  
  

This research highlights a hidden danger in everyday products that many people are unaware of.

Plastic packaging as a source of phthalate exposure

How You Can Limit Your Exposure to Phthalates

Reducing phthalate exposure might seem challenging because these chemicals are so common. However, there are practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) offers useful advice based on recent studies and expert recommendations.

1. Choose Fresh or Frozen Foods Over Packaged Ones

Phthalates can leach into food from plastic packaging, especially fatty foods like cheese or meat. Buying fresh or frozen foods reduces the chance of contamination. Avoid fast foods as there is increased use of plastics to produce and serve these foods.

2. Avoid Microwaving Food in Plastic Containers

Heating plastic can release more phthalates into your food. Use glass or ceramic containers for microwaving instead.

3. Check Personal Care Products for Phthalates

Many shampoos, lotions, and perfumes contain phthalates. Look for products labeled “phthalate-free” or check ingredient lists for chemical terms like “DBP” or “DEP.”

4. Use Safer Alternatives for Household Items

Replace plastic shower curtains, vinyl flooring, and other household items that may contain phthalates with safer materials like cotton, wood, or glass.

5. Avoid Plastic Toys and Products for Children That Contain Phthalates

Children are more vulnerable to chemical exposure. Choose toys and products labeled as phthalate-free to reduce their risk. Try to limit products with the number 3 and 7 recycle sign as these likely contain phthalates.

6. Ventilate Your Home Regularly

Phthalates can accumulate in dust and indoor air. Opening windows and using air purifiers can help reduce indoor pollution.

Glass containers and fresh vegetables as alternatives to plastic use

Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference

Phthalates are everywhere, but you don’t have to accept exposure as inevitable. By making simple changes in your shopping, cooking, and cleaning habits, you can reduce your contact with these chemicals. This can help protect your heart and overall health.

Remember, the study shows that phthalates might contribute to serious health problems, but you have the power to lower your risk. Start by checking your household products and food choices today.

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This post is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you have concerns about heart disease or chemical exposure, consult a healthcare provider.

References:

1. Center for Disease Control Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Phthalates. https://wwwn.cdc.gov/tsp/substances/ToxChemicalListing.aspx?toxid=41 Accessed 07/30/2026.

2. Dobrzyńska M. M. Phthalates - widespread occurrence and the effect on male gametes. Part 1. General characteristics, sources and human exposure. Roczniki Państwowego Zakładu Higieny. 2016;67(2):97–103.

3. Earls A., Axford I. P., Braybrook J. H. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry determination of the migration of phthalate plasticizers from polyvinyl chloride toys and childcare articles. Journal of Chromatography A. 2003;983(1-2):237–246.

4. Environmental Working Group. Six tips to avoid phthalates after study highlights health harms, billion-dollar costs. https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2021/10/six-tips-avoid-phthalates-after-study-highlights-health-harms-billion Accessed 07/30/2026.

5. Environmental Protection Agency. Di (2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP). https://cfpub.epa.gov/ncea/iris2/chemicalLanding.cfm?substance_nmbr=14 Accessed 07/30/2026.

6. Hyman S, Acevedo J, Giannarelli C et al.

   Phthalate exposure from plastics and cardiovascular disease: global estimates of attributable mortality and years life lost eBioMedicine, 2025; 117.

7. Koniecki D., Wang R., Moody R. P., Zhu J. Phthalates in cosmetic and personal care products: Concentrations and possible dermal exposure. Environmental Research. 2011;111(3):329–336.Rowdhwal SSS, Chen J. Toxic Effects of Di-2-ethylhexyl Phthalate: An Overview. Biomed Res Int. 2018 Feb 22;2018:1750368.

8. Rowdhwal SSS, Chen J. Toxic Effects of Di-2-ethylhexyl Phthalate: An Overview. Biomed Res Int. 2018 Feb 22;2018:1750368.

9. Wang Y, Qian H. Phthalates and Their Impacts on Human Health. Healthcare (Basel). 2021 May 18;9(5):603.

10. Yang L, Liu X, Peng Z, Liu Z, Song P, Zhou J, Ma K, Yu Y, Dong Q. Exposure to di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) increases the risk of cancer. BMC Public Health. 2024 Feb 10;24(1):430.