What is Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)?


Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is the most common chemical additive used to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC) more flexible so this plastic can be used in medical devices. Some medical products, such as IV bags and tubing, can contain up to 40% DEHP by weight.¹ 


WHY DOES THE CHEMICAL DEHP MATTER?

DEHP can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion and skin contact.² Exposure to DEHP has been linked with potentially serious health risks.³


DEHP IS A HORMONE-DISRUPTING CHEMICAL

In men, DEHP exposure may affect reproductive development, including sperm abnormalities and lower testosterone levels.¹


Women exposed to DEHP may experience hormonal changes and potential elevated risks for reproductive system complications like endometriosis.² Exposure to DEHP during pregnancy passes to a fetus in utero.¹

CHILDREN AND DEVELOPMENTAL RISKS

In the fetal stage and during childhood, DEHP exposure has been shown to cause neurological disruption, leading to development complications (lower IQ, problems with attention and hyperactivity and poorer social communication).¹

A study showed that DEHP is also an endocrine disruptor, and its effects on endocrine hormones have been associated with increased BMI and waist circumference in Chinese school children aged 8-11.²

Additional effects to reproductive development from DEHP may occur in males during childhood.¹


DEHP AND ITS CONNECTION TO CANCER

The state of California includes DEHP on the Proposition 65 warning list because it can cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.³ 


THE CHOICE IS CLEAR

Congress has prohibited DEHP from being used in children's toys, and California has banned it from being used in IV bags and tubing.³ So, why are we still using DEHP in IV bags when patients are vulnerable to such direct exposure? While there is some legislative movement to end the use of DEHP in IV bags and other medical products, it’s time to make a national push to remove this toxic chemical from patient care.