Impact of Plastics on Health
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October 07, 2019
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Plastics are everywhere! Plastics have revolutionized the kitchen.
The medical industry has also greatly improved due to the incorporation of plastics across a whole range of uses.
What are plastics after-all?
They are synthetic materials derived from petrochemicals and are convenient but non-biodegradable materials.
Why then do plastics always end up in headlines for all the wrong reasons?
- Plastics not only pose a threat to the environment, but they also pose a health risk to consumers and safety issues during their manufacture.
- Plastics are known to emit harmful chemicals, some of which can migrate from the plastic packing to the foods, especially when foods are greasy, and pose serious health problems.
- Babies and young children are exposed to these chemicals in more ways than adults and may also have higher exposures than adults.
- Chemicals from plastics can cause:
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension
- May reduce the effectiveness of vaccines in children
- Bisphenol A found in water-bottles may cause early onset of puberty, obesity, and diabetes, among other issues.
- Tetrafluroethelyne of non-stick coating of cookware can cause breathing difficulties.
- Phthalates found in plastics are linked to diseases like cancer.
The health impact of plastics can be reduced by finding alternatives to plastic products whenever possible.
Some suggestions are:
- Buy food in glass or metal containers
- Avoid heating food in plastic containers
- Do not give young children plastic teethers or toys
- Use natural fiber clothing, bedding and furniture
Judicious use of plastics can help minimise health risks.
Developed by Scientific Angle brought to you by Health Meter Services
Disclaimer: Don’t follow any suggestions in this article without consulting a qualified doctor
References:
1. Adverse health effects of plastics https://ecologycenter.org/factsheets/adverse-health-effects-of-plastics/