Phthalates in food and medical devices.

Phthalates are ubiquitous environmental chemicals with a broad range of potential adverse health effects. Exposure pathways include air, water, packaged food and household products. Biological effects include disruption of the balance of sex hormones, allergic reactions, and enzyme inhibition. Carcinogenicity is seen in animals. In human studies, phthalates have been associated with poorer sperm quality, the symptomatology of asthma, and shortened AGD. Given the widespread use of phthalates in industrialized countries, further research, particularly on birth outcomes, endocrine disruption and child development are greatly needed.