Health and economic costs from three toxic chemicals used in plastics estimated at $1.5 trillion for a single year

A recent study conducted by an economist from the University of Massachusetts Amherst has revealed that the health impacts associated with three common toxic chemicals found in plastics amounted to $1.5 trillion in a single year. These adverse effects include premature deaths, chronic diseases, and lower IQ levels.

The study, which was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, analyzed data from 38 countries, representing a significant portion of the global population.

The three chemicals examined in the study are Bisphenol A (BPA), Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), and Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). These chemicals are commonly used in various consumer products and have been linked to a range of health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, reproductive disorders, and developmental problems.

The study estimated the health and economic impacts of these chemicals for the year 2015 and found alarming statistics:

• • BPA exposure led to millions of cases of heart disease and strokes, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths and significant economic losses.

• • DEHP exposure was associated with a considerable number of deaths and economic costs, particularly in the older population.

• • PBDE exposure in pregnant women resulted in a significant loss of IQ points in children, leading to substantial productivity losses.

The researchers emphasized the need for stricter regulations and international agreements to address the health risks posed by these chemicals in plastics. They highlighted the progress made by some countries in reducing exposure to these toxic substances but noted that a majority of chemicals used in plastics remain untested for toxicity.

The study underscores the importance of protecting public health from the hazards of chemicals in plastics and calls for global cooperation to mitigate the risks, especially in regions where plastic consumption is on the rise.