CPSC Proposes Expanded Phthalates Ban for Children's Products
The CHAP, which began meeting in April 2010, studied the effects of children's health of all phthalates and phthalate alternatives as used in children's toys and child care articles in a report of its findings July 18.
The CHAP found exposing pregnant rats to certain phthalates affected male reproductive development, which is known as "phthalate syndrome in rats," according to the report. However, humans are often exposed to multiple kinds of phthalates, and studies have shown low doses of multiple phthalates can have a additive effect that also results in phthalate syndrome. That syndrome is believed to resemble "testicular dysgenesis syndrome" in humans, and various studies have shown associations between phthalates exposure and reproductive development in male infants. Other studies found associations between phthalates exposure and neurobehavioral effects in children.
Amanda L. Cole is the editor-in-chief of NonProfit PRO. She was formerly editor-in-chief of special projects for NonProfit PRO's sister publication, Promo Marketing. Contact her at acole@napco.com.