Phthalates in the NICU: a survey

Phthalates are chemicals used to enhance the flexibility, solidity and durability of plastics. In neonatal intensive care units (NICU), neonates are exposed to phthalates percutaneously, through drugs, blood transfusions and medical devices (MD) used for ventilation, infusions, nutrition, with daily doses potentially exceeding by far doses considered as secure.1 Experimental and epidemiological data suggest phthalates could act as endocrine disruptors, and may be associated with altered neurodevelopment (attention deficit, autism), including in children after intensive care.2 Although several authorities recommend to limit the exposure to phthalates in medical care (DEHP, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in particular) and European regulations stipulate that ‘Devices …