Prenatal Exposure to Phthalates Increases Risk of Childhood Asthma

Recent findings published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives show a direct link between childhood asthma and prenatal exposure to two phthalates used in a diverse array of household products.

Researchers found that children who are born to mothers exposed during pregnancy to higher levels of the chemicals butylbenzyl phthalate (BBzP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) had a 72 percent and 78 percent increased risk of developing asthma between the ages of 5 and 11, respectively, compared with children of mothers with lower levels of exposure.

"Our study presents evidence that these two phthalates are among a range of known risk factors for asthma," said lead study author Robin Whyatt, DrPH, professor of Environmental Health Sciences and co-deputy director of the Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health at the Mailman School, in a news release.

Several phthalates, including BBzP and DnBP, were banned from children's toys and other childcare articles throughout the United States in 2009; these are typically used in an array of household products, including many synthetic fragrances to plastic food containers, vinyl flooring, insect repellent, steering wheels, dashboards and even shower curtains.

"Our study presents evidence that these two phthalates are among a range of known risk factors for asthma," concluded Dr. Whyatt.

As the number of people with asthma continues to grow, it's estimated that about one in 12, or 25 million are affected in the United States alone, according to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Pinpointing health hazards that cause the health issue or exacerbate the condition can help address the problem early and even possibly prevent it.