Researchers have found a connection between exposure to the chemical group called phthalates and childhood obesity, which includes higher body mass index (BMI) as well as waist circumference.
Phthalates are synthetic, endocrine disrupting chemicals which can mimic the human body’s natural hormones. They’re widely made use of in wall coverings and plastic flooring, medical devices, food processing materials as well as personal-care products. While bad nutrition and lack of exercise can contribute to obesity, an increasing body of research indicates that environmental chemicals, which includes phthalates, might be a factor in increasing childhood obesity rates.
Chemicals In Personal Care Products Associated With Childhood Obesity
This research was the 1st to look at the connection between phthalate exposure and measurements made use of to determine childhood obesity.
The study tested phthalate concentrations within the urine of 387 Hispanic and black children from New York City, and noted body measurements which includes BMI, height, as well as waist circumference a year later. The urine tests showed that more than 97 % of the children were exposed to phthalates commonly used in personal care products like perfume, lotions, and cosmetics; varnishes; and medication or nutritional supplement coatings. The phthalates included monoethyl phthalate (MEP) and other low molecular-weight phthalates. They also found a connection between concentrations of these phthalates with BMI and waist circumference among overweight children. For instance, BMI in overweight girls with the highest exposure to MEP was 10 % higher than those with the lowest MEP exposure.
Studies have shown that exposure to these everyday chemicals could impair childhood neurodevelopment, but this is the first research showing that they could play a role in childhood obesity. This research also further highlights the need for limiting exposure to these chemicals wherever possible.
The percentage of obese children aged 6 to 11 in the U.S. has increased from 7 % in 1980 to in excess of 40 % in 2008, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In excess of 15 % of American children between the ages 6 and 19 are classified as obese. In New York City, in excess of 1 in 5 children in public schools are obese.
Reference for: Chemicals In Personal Care Products Associated With Childhood Obesity
