Increased Risk Of Developing Type-2 Diabetes Associated With High Phthalates

Researchers from the Uppsala University have found out that there is a connection between phthalates which are found in cosmetics and plastics and the increase in risk in developing type-2 diabetes. It was seen that with an increase in circulating phthalates there is a doubled risk of developing diabetes.

The study further supports the theory that there are environmental chemicals that can contribute to the development of diabetes. This conclusion was agreed by Monica Lind, an associate professor of environmental medicine at the Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine at Uppsala University.

The research study included more than 1,000 70-year old women and men who live in Uppsala. Participants of the study were initially assessed with their fasting blood sugar levels and different tests to measure insulin levels. Blood samples were taken and were analyzed for various environmental toxins which also include the substances that the body forms when it breaks down phthalates. Common phthalates that are people come in contact more often are softening agents in plastics, perfume carriers, various cosmetic products and self care products.

The results showed that diabetes was more common in people who were overweight and had increased amounts of blood lipids. It also revealed that in people with elevated phthalates had twice the risk of developing diabetes compared to regular people; phthalates were also found to affect the insulin production in the pancreas.

With the undoubted conclusion that phthalates can increase the risk of developing type-2 diabetes, the need for further studies was stressed to associate the results of this study. There is also a call to be vigilant in choosing safe products that do not contain phthalates. Phthalates are in cosmetics, self care products, solid air fresheners and in softening cellulose plastics.

Related reviews