Regrets and hindsight are meant to teach us lessons. When it comes to dumping chemical after chemical into our environment without true evaluation of the health effects, this research reminds us of the negative consequences. The Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health released study findings linking prenatal phthalates exposure to motor development effects on girls evaluated at age 11 years.
Phthalates are ubiquitous chemicals which come in a variety of shapes and sizes for a variety of uses. They are used as plasticizers in many products adding flexibility and durability to polymers or often used as odor-enhancing additives. Everything from plastic toys to shampoos, perfumes, and food packaging may have phthalates. Prior research has linked different phthalates to thyroid problems, cerebellar (coordination) problems, male reproductive problems, and other cognitive problems.
In this study of 209 pregnant women, the level of phthalates in the mother’s urine during the third trimester was measured. Higher levels correlated with decreased motor function in the daughters at age 11 years.
Discerning our toxic exposures and how to limit them with wise choices is critical for the future generations. That work begins during the mom’s pregnancy and even before. If you are considering pregnancy in the coming years, start removing toxins now from your life. Helping your future child to live a healthier more abundant life begins now.
Original Article:
Sharon Daniel, Arin A. Balalian, Robin M. Whyatt, Xinhua Liu, Virginia Rauh, Julie Herbstman, Pam Factor-Litvak. Perinatal phthalates exposure decreases fine-motor functions in 11-year-old girls: Results from weighted Quantile sum regression. Environment International, 2020; 136: 105424 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.105424
Thanks to Science Daily:
Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health. “Plasticizers may contribute to motor control problems in girls.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 6 January 2020. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/01/200106122033.htm>.
Other articles:
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