 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
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| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
Julie Silas, JD, Physicians for Social Responsibility - S.F. Bay Area Chapter, 2288 Fulton St. #307, Berkeley, CA 94704-1449, 510 594-8270, jules32@earthlink.net
Abstract: DEHP (di-ethylhexylphthalate) is one of a family of chemicals called phthalates that are widely used in cosmetics, toys, and other consumer products. In medical devices, DEHP is used as a softener in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic products. DEHP readily leaches from PVC because it is not tightly bound in the molecular structure.
Recent science implicates DEHP as a reproductive toxicant, in addition to concerns about carcinogenicity in animal studies. In October 2000, the National Toxicology Program's Center for the Evaluation of Risks to Human Reproduction expressed "serious concern" that DEHP exposure could adversely affect male reproductive tract development in critically ill infants. Concern was also raised about exposure to healthy infants, toddlers, and lactating mothers. Subsequently, in September 2001, the FDA issued a Safety Assessment on DEHP, reinforcing earlier findings.
To date, the FDA has not required labeling of DEHP-containing devices, leaving clinicians in neo-natal intensive care units (NICUs) unable to know whether treatments are exposing children to DEHP. In response, California NICUs are developing their own lists of DEHP-free products, calling for voluntary labeling by manufacturers, and pressuring their hospitals' Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs) to provide non-DEHP products.
Learning Objectives:
Related Web page: www.noharm.org
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.