Conflicting Reports on the Safety of Phthalates

Two new reports on common plasticizers used in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products offer very different conclusions about the safety of these chemicals. A panel of scientists and physicians convened by the American Council on Science and Health (ACSH) and led by former U.S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop, has concluded that phthalates are not harmful. The 17-member panel carried out an in-depth literature review of the health effects of DEHP and DINH, two common phthalate plasticizers used, respectively, in IV-fluid bags and vinyl toys. These chemicals are used in many building materials, including wiring, vinyl sheet flooring, and vinyl wallpaper. Studies from the U.S., Canada, and Europe were examined. “Consumers can be confident that vinyl toys and medical devices are safe,” said Koop. “There is no scientific evidence that they are harmful to children or adults.”

The ACSH report is contradicted by another recently released study of phthalates, this one by Health Care Without Harm, a coalition of consumer, health, and environmental groups. The latter study concluded that phthalates could harm multiple organs and interfere with sperm production. In a June 23 article on the