A recent study conducted by researchers at UC Davis has revealed a potential link between exposure to certain chemicals found in baby products and premature birth. The study, published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, suggests that exposure to organophosphate ester flame retardants (OPEs) during pregnancy may be associated with giving birth before full term.
The research indicates that various OPEs, commonly used in furniture, electronics, textiles, and building materials, could have adverse effects on pregnancy. These flame retardants, which are also utilized in baby products and plastic manufacturing, have been increasingly employed since the phase-out of polybrominated flame retardants due to toxicity concerns.
As OPEs degrade over time, they can become particulate and are often found in dust, potentially entering the body through skin contact or inhalation. The study found that OPEs were prevalent in the urine of over 85 percent of the study participants, raising concerns about the widespread exposure to these compounds among pregnant individuals in the U.S.
Deborah Bennett, a professor of environmental health at UC Davis and the senior author of the study, highlighted the significance of the findings, stating, “The widespread use of products with new flame retardants among pregnant people in the U.S. means that a significant number of births could be affected by these compounds.”
The study, which analyzed data from 6,646 mother-child pairs as part of the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcome (ECHO) study, measured nine OPE biomarkers in the urine of pregnant individuals between 2007 and 2020. The researchers also assessed the birth outcomes, including birth weight and gestational age, of the children.
While some OPEs were associated with premature birth, others were linked to higher birth weight. These findings underscore the potential impact of these chemicals on maternal and child health, raising important concerns about the use of OPEs in everyday products.
As the study sheds light on the possible risks associated with OPE exposure during pregnancy, further research and public awareness are crucial in addressing the potential health implications for expectant mothers and their babies.
