Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Autism May Be 14 Times More Likely with This Hidden Condition

A new study has revealed an unexpected link between <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/autism">autism</a></span> and a rare genetic disorder, shedding new light on the causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Scientists have discovered that people with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) — a rare, inherited neuromuscular disorder — are 14 times more likely to develop autism than the general population.

While autism touches an estimated 7 million Americans, DM1 touches about 140,000, making it far less common. Nevertheless, the discoveries are revolutionizing how scientists think about the genetic structure of autism and revealing possible biological mechanisms that could drive its development.

<h2>What Is Genetic Condition Called?</h2>

DM1 is an inherited disorder where muscles become weak and progressively lose their strength, muscles tire easily, there are uncontrollable movements of the face or limbs, and there is cognitive impairment. It is a result of DMPK gene mutation where the gene function is compromised by tandem repeat expansions (TREs), which are repetitions of DNA. This generates poisonous RNA that then interferes with the capacity of the body to synthesize crucial proteins in the muscles and the brain.

What is so worrisome about this disorder in the case of autism is that it has an effect on neural development and gene expression within the brain. DM1 may change the way the brain develops connections early in life — an age when developing communication skills, social behavior, and learning habits is most important, all of which are frequently affected in those with autism.

Genetic Insights: Connecting the Dots Between DM1 and Autism

In a comprehensive research conducted by the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) and published in Nature Neuroscience, scientists compared RNA in 38 sets of genes from people with and without autism. RNA is crucial in gene expression for enabling DNA instructions to be translated into functioning proteins.

The researchers found that when the DMPK gene experiences tandem repeat expansion, the resulting RNA abnormally binds to proteins essential for the splicing of genes — an important process for gene function in brain development. The misbinding depletes proteins and triggers a cascading effect of mis-spliced genes, the majority of which contribute to regulating brain function and development.

This is a new paradigm for how to think about the genetic landscape of autism," said Dr. Ryan Yuen, senior scientist at the Hospital for Sick Children and author of the study. "We now understand that defective RNA has the ability to behave like a sponge, attracting away vital proteins necessary for proper brain development. This may be the reason why DM1 has a connection to the social, behavioral symptoms we identify with ASD."

<h2>What is Tandem Repeat Expansions (TREs)?</h2>

TREs happen when DNA sections repeat more times than usual, leading to the risk of genetic mistakes. TREs are now found to happen more frequently in people with autism, with previous research by Dr. Yuen that found over 2,500 sites in the genome where TREs disproportionately occurred in ASD-diagnosed individuals.

In DM1, the increased repeats in the DMPK gene disrupt protein regulation throughout the genome. This interference not only leads to muscle weakness and heart disease but also potentially underlies some of the neurological features seen in autism — including repetitive behavior, poor coordination, and sensory sensitivities.

Perhaps the most thrilling implication of this breakthrough is its potential for targeted therapies. Scientists are now investigating how to restore protein balance by either releasing bound toxic RNA-bound proteins or reintroducing critical proteins into the genome. These approaches could lead to precision medicine that targets the genetic dysfunctions underlying both DM1 and ASD directly.

"By knowing the specific molecular pathways that are affected, we can start to create therapies that are really personalized," Dr. Yuen said. "It's no longer about treating autism symptoms—it's about fixing the underlying causes."

As the genetic link between DM1 and autism continues to unravel, yet another recent Chinese study is bringing hope in the guise of a non-surgical brain stimulation method called transcranial pulsed current stimulation (tPCS).

It's a therapy that uses electrodes placed on the scalp to deliver mild electrical impulses into target areas of the brain. In a 20-session trial with children between ages 3 and 14, the ones who got tPCS for four weeks improved significantly in sleep, language, sensory responsiveness, and social interaction. While still in the experimental stage, it promises that brain modulation technology could supplement genetic treatments for ASD in the future.

The sense of urgency is also heightened by the newest CDC statistics, which say that 1 in 31 children in the U.S. is now diagnosed with autism a rate that has skyrocketed from 1 in 150 in the early 2000s. Although some attribute the increase to improved screening and awareness, others think that environmental toxins, including exposure to pesticides, food additives, or too many ultrasound scans, could be playing a role.

Whatever the reason, what's certain is that autism is no longer an either-or condition that can be treated with blanket solutions. The connection between DM1 and ASD has made it necessary for all diagnostics and therapies to be based on the most advanced genetic knowledge.

Health Conditions A-Z

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autism genetic causes

autism brain development

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autism new research

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A new study has revealed an unexpected link between autism and a rare genetic disorder, shedding new light on the causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Scientists have discovered that people with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) — a rare, inherited neuromuscular disorder — are 14 times more likely to develop autism than the general population.While autism touches an estimated 7 million Americans, DM1 touches about 140,000, making it far less common. Nevertheless, the discoveries are revolutionizing how scientists think about the genetic structure of autism and revealing possible biological mechanisms that could drive its development.What Is Genetic Condition Called?DM1 is an inherited disorder where muscles become weak and progressively lose their strength, muscles tire easily, there are uncontrollable movements of the face or limbs, and there is cognitive impairment. It is a result of DMPK gene mutation where the gene function is compromised by tandem repeat expansions (TREs), which are repetitions of DNA. This generates poisonous RNA that then interferes with the capacity of the body to synthesize crucial proteins in the muscles and the brain.What is so worrisome about this disorder in the case of autism is that it has an effect on neural development and gene expression within the brain. DM1 may change the way the brain develops connections early in life — an age when developing communication skills, social behavior, and learning habits is most important, all of which are frequently affected in those with autism.Genetic Insights: Connecting the Dots Between DM1 and AutismIn a comprehensive research conducted by the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) and published in Nature Neuroscience, scientists compared RNA in 38 sets of genes from people with and without autism. RNA is crucial in gene expression for enabling DNA instructions to be translated into functioning proteins.The researchers found that when the DMPK gene experiences tandem repeat expansion, the resulting RNA abnormally binds to proteins essential for the splicing of genes — an important process for gene function in brain development. The misbinding depletes proteins and triggers a cascading effect of mis-spliced genes, the majority of which contribute to regulating brain function and development.This is a new paradigm for how to think about the genetic landscape of autism," said Dr. Ryan Yuen, senior scientist at the Hospital for Sick Children and author of the study. "We now understand that defective RNA has the ability to behave like a sponge, attracting away vital proteins necessary for proper brain development. This may be the reason why DM1 has a connection to the social, behavioral symptoms we identify with ASD."What is Tandem Repeat Expansions (TREs)?TREs happen when DNA sections repeat more times than usual, leading to the risk of genetic mistakes. TREs are now found to happen more frequently in people with autism, with previous research by Dr. Yuen that found over 2,500 sites in the genome where TREs disproportionately occurred in ASD-diagnosed individuals.In DM1, the increased repeats in the DMPK gene disrupt protein regulation throughout the genome. This interference not only leads to muscle weakness and heart disease but also potentially underlies some of the neurological features seen in autism — including repetitive behavior, poor coordination, and sensory sensitivities.Perhaps the most thrilling implication of this breakthrough is its potential for targeted therapies. Scientists are now investigating how to restore protein balance by either releasing bound toxic RNA-bound proteins or reintroducing critical proteins into the genome. These approaches could lead to precision medicine that targets the genetic dysfunctions underlying both DM1 and ASD directly."By knowing the specific molecular pathways that are affected, we can start to create therapies that are really personalized," Dr. Yuen said. "It's no longer about treating autism symptoms—it's about fixing the underlying causes."As the genetic link between DM1 and autism continues to unravel, yet another recent Chinese study is bringing hope in the guise of a non-surgical brain stimulation method called transcranial pulsed current stimulation (tPCS).It's a therapy that uses electrodes placed on the scalp to deliver mild electrical impulses into target areas of the brain. In a 20-session trial with children between ages 3 and 14, the ones who got tPCS for four weeks improved significantly in sleep, language, sensory responsiveness, and social interaction. While still in the experimental stage, it promises that brain modulation technology could supplement genetic treatments for ASD in the future.The sense of urgency is also heightened by the newest CDC statistics, which say that 1 in 31 children in the U.S. is now diagnosed with autism a rate that has skyrocketed from 1 in 150 in the early 2000s. Although some attribute the increase to improved screening and awareness, others think that environmental toxins, including exposure to pesticides, food additives, or too many ultrasound scans, could be playing a role.Whatever the reason, what's certain is that autism is no longer an either-or condition that can be treated with blanket solutions. The connection between DM1 and ASD has made it necessary for all diagnostics and therapies to be based on the most advanced genetic knowledge.

autism may be 14 times more likely with this hidden condition

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California may be heading toward another record year of <span>Valley fever</span> infections, with early 2025 data already showing a troubling increase in reported cases. Health officials have confirmed over 3,100 infections across the state—figures that surpass last year’s numbers for the same period and nearly double those recorded in 2023.

 Valley fever, medically known as coccidioidomycosis, is a serious lung infection caused by the <em>Coccidioides</em> fungus, which thrives in the dry, dusty soils of the western U.S. California, where the disease was first identified, consistently reports the highest number of cases nationwide. If left untreated, the illness can lead to severe, long-term respiratory issues and even death if it spreads to the brain.

 “There is no question that the number of cases is enormously higher than before,” said Dr. Royce Johnson, director of the Valley Fever Institute at Kern Medical. “If you want to see me, you’d have to wait until July, and that goes for my colleagues, too,” he told NBC News, highlighting the growing strain on healthcare systems in affected regions.

 The majority of recent infections have been reported in Kern, Los Angeles, Monterey, and Fresno counties—areas long known as hotspots. But the illness is now expanding its reach. In Contra Costa County, located in the East Bay region, cases have tripled compared to 2023. Nearby Merced and San Bernardino counties are also reporting significant spikes.

 “It appears to be spreading out,” noted Gail Sondermeyer Cooksey, an epidemiologist with the California Department of Public Health.

 Valley fever infections occur when people inhale spores released into the air from soil containing <em>Coccidioides</em>. These spores can be stirred up by wind, construction, and agricultural activities. While anyone can get infected, those most at risk include people over 60, individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, diabetics, and those of Black or Filipino descent. Outdoor workers also face higher exposure.

 Symptoms typically resemble those of the flu and may include fatigue, cough, fever, shortness of breath, and skin rashes. While most recover, about 10 percent develop chronic lung issues, and approximately 1 percent experience dissemination of the infection to the skin, bones, joints, or brain.

 Health experts also point to a concerning link between <strong>climate change</strong> and the disease's rising prevalence. Shifts from prolonged drought to intense rain—common in California’s recent weather patterns—create favorable conditions for the fungus to grow and later release spores as the land dries.

 “As climate change alters the timing and intensity of precipitation in California, we see longer high-risk periods for <em>Coccidioides</em> exposure,” said Simon Camponuri, a PhD researcher at the University of California, Berkeley.

 With forecasts predicting a hot and dry summer following recent floods and mudslides, health officials are bracing for continued spikes in Valley fever cases in the coming months. Public health campaigns are urging increased awareness, especially among vulnerable populations and those living in high-risk regions.

Valley Fever

US Health News

Valley Fever symptoms

How To Identify Valley Fever

California valley fever

California may be heading toward another record year of Valley fever infections, with early 2025 data already showing a troubling increase in reported cases. Health officials have confirmed over 3,100 infections across the state—figures that surpass last year’s numbers for the same period and nearly double those recorded in 2023. Valley fever, medically known as coccidioidomycosis, is a serious lung infection caused by the Coccidioides fungus, which thrives in the dry, dusty soils of the western U.S. California, where the disease was first identified, consistently reports the highest number of cases nationwide. If left untreated, the illness can lead to severe, long-term respiratory issues and even death if it spreads to the brain. “There is no question that the number of cases is enormously higher than before,” said Dr. Royce Johnson, director of the Valley Fever Institute at Kern Medical. “If you want to see me, you’d have to wait until July, and that goes for my colleagues, too,” he told NBC News, highlighting the growing strain on healthcare systems in affected regions. The majority of recent infections have been reported in Kern, Los Angeles, Monterey, and Fresno counties—areas long known as hotspots. But the illness is now expanding its reach. In Contra Costa County, located in the East Bay region, cases have tripled compared to 2023. Nearby Merced and San Bernardino counties are also reporting significant spikes. “It appears to be spreading out,” noted Gail Sondermeyer Cooksey, an epidemiologist with the California Department of Public Health. Valley fever infections occur when people inhale spores released into the air from soil containing Coccidioides. These spores can be stirred up by wind, construction, and agricultural activities. While anyone can get infected, those most at risk include people over 60, individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, diabetics, and those of Black or Filipino descent. Outdoor workers also face higher exposure. Symptoms typically resemble those of the flu and may include fatigue, cough, fever, shortness of breath, and skin rashes. While most recover, about 10 percent develop chronic lung issues, and approximately 1 percent experience dissemination of the infection to the skin, bones, joints, or brain. Health experts also point to a concerning link between climate change and the disease's rising prevalence. Shifts from prolonged drought to intense rain—common in California’s recent weather patterns—create favorable conditions for the fungus to grow and later release spores as the land dries. “As climate change alters the timing and intensity of precipitation in California, we see longer high-risk periods for Coccidioides exposure,” said Simon Camponuri, a PhD researcher at the University of California, Berkeley. With forecasts predicting a hot and dry summer following recent floods and mudslides, health officials are bracing for continued spikes in Valley fever cases in the coming months. Public health campaigns are urging increased awareness, especially among vulnerable populations and those living in high-risk regions.

valley fever cases surge in california-how to identifiy this lung infection

GLP-1 Drugs Fight Fat, Curb Appetite And May Also Reduce Cancer Risk

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What if the one injection that is helping you lose weight and manage diabetes also protect you from <span>cancer</span>? That's the surprising promise emerging from a new study on <span>GLP-1 drugs</span>, drugs already drawing attention for their ability to battle obesity and regulate blood sugar. Now scientists have discovered a potential new advantage: a much reduced risk of cancers related to obesity.

While the global use of GLP-1 agonists such as Saxenda and Byetta is gaining speed, this research unlocks a thrilling new era in preventive care. But just how do such medications function and why could they be protecting us against cancer?

After once being touted as miracle drugs for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications such as Saxenda and Byetta are now uncovering a new benefit: a reduced risk of cancer. New research in the journal eClinicalMedicine identifies that these initial weight-loss medications may have more to their credit than just reducing waistlines—they can cut the risk of developing obesity-linked cancers by a dramatic 41%.

This finding has the potential to change forever the way that we think about the wider ramifications of GLP-1 treatments, particularly in a world where metabolic diseases are closely associated with cancer susceptibility. But why might this new benefit exist? And how do these drugs actually work?

<h2>What Are GLP-1 Drugs and How Do They Work?</h2>

GLP-1 agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a type of drug that mimics the effect of an endogenous hormone involved in the modulation of appetite, blood glucose levels, and digestion. Initially approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, they've become very popular due to their capacity to cause weight loss by reducing hunger and slowing gastric emptying.

Drugs such as liraglutide (Saxenda) and exenatide (Byetta) are usually given through subcutaneous injection. Newer forms, including semaglutide (<span>Ozempic</span>) and tirzepatide (Zepbound), have greater efficacy in weight loss and metabolic control, although they were not part of this specific study.

GLP-1 acts via a cascade of hormonal action:

<ul><li>It triggers the release of insulin from the pancreas, lowering blood sugar.</li><li>It inhibits the release of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar.</li><li>It reduces the rate at which the stomach empties following meals.</li></ul>

Perhaps most importantly for managing weight, it sends satiety messages to the brain to make people feel fuller for longer.

<h2>Missing Link Between Cancer Risk and Obesity </h2>

Both type 2 diabetes and obesity are firmly established as risk factors for many forms of cancer, such as breast, colon, uterine, pancreatic, and liver cancer. This can be explained by the chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalance that accompany excess fat stores.

For their new study, scientists from Clalit Health Services in Tel Aviv, Israel, analyzed electronic health records of more than 6,300 adults age 24 and above. Everyone involved had both type 2 diabetes and obesity and received either GLP-1 medication or weight-loss surgery between 2010 and 2018. The group was followed through to December 2023 to record cancer diagnoses.

During a median follow-up of 7.5 years, approximately 300 individuals developed cancer of the obesity type—predominantly breast (26%), colon (16%), and uterus (15%).

Although bariatric surgery has been the obesity treatment gold standard for decades—and was in turn found to lower cancer risk—scientists discovered obesity-associated cancers were equal in both the surgery and GLP-1 groups. This was unexpected because surgery tends to induce greater and more immediate weight loss.

Still, additional statistical examination found that the GLP-1 medications offered a 41% lower risk of cancerous developments than surgery indicated that their anti-cancer benefit might extend beyond weight loss alone.

<h2>Reason Behind the Anti-Cancer Effect</h2>

According to co-lead researcher Dr. Dror Dicker, who heads the Obesity Clinic at Hasharon Hospital-Rabin Medical Center, the anti-cancer effects of GLP-1 drugs likely stem from multiple mechanisms. “Reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, and altering cellular growth pathways may all play a role,” he noted in a news release.

While more recent, more powerful GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Zepbound were not included in the study, researchers are convinced they may provide even stronger protective effects. However, additional long-term studies are necessary to determine their impacts on cancers that are not related to obesity.

This new evidence indicates a paradigm shift of foundational importance in the way we think about metabolic health interventions. GLP-1 medications could soon be hailed not merely as weight-loss supplements or treatments for diabetes but as prevention against one of the world's most dreaded illnesses.

Nevertheless, prudence is still advisable. Long-term experience with these drugs is lacking, and their side effects, including nausea, gastrointestinal upset, and possible hazards for thyroid tumors, need to be weighed. A boxed warning is now placed on the list of the FDA for some GLP-1 drugs for thyroid C-cell tumors, although this has so far been seen most commonly in animal models.

With the worldwide obesity epidemic on the rise, so is the need to know how drugs such as GLP-1 agonists can change not only waistlines, but also long-term health endpoints. The notion that a single class of medication might lower the risk of cancer in addition to managing blood glucose and reducing appetite is revolutionary.

Additional research, particularly with next-generation GLP-1 drugs, will be necessary to more fully investigate and validate these benefits but for the time being, this study introduces an exhilarating and promising new chapter at the nexus of <span>cancer prevention</span> and obesity treatment.

cancer

glp-1 drugs

cancer prevention

weight loss medication

obesity-related cancer

saxenda study

glp-1 cancer risk

diabetes and cancer

ozempic

What if the one injection that is helping you lose weight and manage diabetes also protect you from cancer? That's the surprising promise emerging from a new study on GLP-1 drugs, drugs already drawing attention for their ability to battle obesity and regulate blood sugar. Now scientists have discovered a potential new advantage: a much reduced risk of cancers related to obesity.While the global use of GLP-1 agonists such as Saxenda and Byetta is gaining speed, this research unlocks a thrilling new era in preventive care. But just how do such medications function and why could they be protecting us against cancer?After once being touted as miracle drugs for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications such as Saxenda and Byetta are now uncovering a new benefit: a reduced risk of cancer. New research in the journal eClinicalMedicine identifies that these initial weight-loss medications may have more to their credit than just reducing waistlines—they can cut the risk of developing obesity-linked cancers by a dramatic 41%.This finding has the potential to change forever the way that we think about the wider ramifications of GLP-1 treatments, particularly in a world where metabolic diseases are closely associated with cancer susceptibility. But why might this new benefit exist? And how do these drugs actually work?What Are GLP-1 Drugs and How Do They Work?GLP-1 agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a type of drug that mimics the effect of an endogenous hormone involved in the modulation of appetite, blood glucose levels, and digestion. Initially approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, they've become very popular due to their capacity to cause weight loss by reducing hunger and slowing gastric emptying.Drugs such as liraglutide (Saxenda) and exenatide (Byetta) are usually given through subcutaneous injection. Newer forms, including semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Zepbound), have greater efficacy in weight loss and metabolic control, although they were not part of this specific study.GLP-1 acts via a cascade of hormonal action:It triggers the release of insulin from the pancreas, lowering blood sugar.It inhibits the release of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar.It reduces the rate at which the stomach empties following meals.Perhaps most importantly for managing weight, it sends satiety messages to the brain to make people feel fuller for longer.Missing Link Between Cancer Risk and Obesity Both type 2 diabetes and obesity are firmly established as risk factors for many forms of cancer, such as breast, colon, uterine, pancreatic, and liver cancer. This can be explained by the chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalance that accompany excess fat stores.For their new study, scientists from Clalit Health Services in Tel Aviv, Israel, analyzed electronic health records of more than 6,300 adults age 24 and above. Everyone involved had both type 2 diabetes and obesity and received either GLP-1 medication or weight-loss surgery between 2010 and 2018. The group was followed through to December 2023 to record cancer diagnoses.During a median follow-up of 7.5 years, approximately 300 individuals developed cancer of the obesity type—predominantly breast (26%), colon (16%), and uterus (15%).GLP-1 vs. SurgeryAlthough bariatric surgery has been the obesity treatment gold standard for decades—and was in turn found to lower cancer risk—scientists discovered obesity-associated cancers were equal in both the surgery and GLP-1 groups. This was unexpected because surgery tends to induce greater and more immediate weight loss.Still, additional statistical examination found that the GLP-1 medications offered a 41% lower risk of cancerous developments than surgery indicated that their anti-cancer benefit might extend beyond weight loss alone.Reason Behind the Anti-Cancer EffectAccording to co-lead researcher Dr. Dror Dicker, who heads the Obesity Clinic at Hasharon Hospital-Rabin Medical Center, the anti-cancer effects of GLP-1 drugs likely stem from multiple mechanisms. “Reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, and altering cellular growth pathways may all play a role,” he noted in a news release.While more recent, more powerful GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Zepbound were not included in the study, researchers are convinced they may provide even stronger protective effects. However, additional long-term studies are necessary to determine their impacts on cancers that are not related to obesity.Can It Change Cancer Treatment?This new evidence indicates a paradigm shift of foundational importance in the way we think about metabolic health interventions. GLP-1 medications could soon be hailed not merely as weight-loss supplements or treatments for diabetes but as prevention against one of the world's most dreaded illnesses.Nevertheless, prudence is still advisable. Long-term experience with these drugs is lacking, and their side effects, including nausea, gastrointestinal upset, and possible hazards for thyroid tumors, need to be weighed. A boxed warning is now placed on the list of the FDA for some GLP-1 drugs for thyroid C-cell tumors, although this has so far been seen most commonly in animal models.With the worldwide obesity epidemic on the rise, so is the need to know how drugs such as GLP-1 agonists can change not only waistlines, but also long-term health endpoints. The notion that a single class of medication might lower the risk of cancer in addition to managing blood glucose and reducing appetite is revolutionary.Additional research, particularly with next-generation GLP-1 drugs, will be necessary to more fully investigate and validate these benefits but for the time being, this study introduces an exhilarating and promising new chapter at the nexus of cancer prevention and obesity treatment.

glp-1 drugs fight fat, curb appetite and may also reduce cancer risk

Not Cholesterol: Surprising Chemical In Shampoo Bottles Tied To Heart-Related Deaths In India

Plastic Pieces Prompt Recall Of Popular Ice Cream Brand

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High Cholesterol Linked To Longer Life Spans In This Blue Zone

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Thousands of Indians die every year from heart disease. Now you may link it to high cholesterol and a lack of physical exercise, but the reality is different. According to researchers, these deaths are a result of exposure to a harmful chemical that is present in shampoos, food containers and all other common household <span>plastic</span> products. 

A recent study published in The Lancet eBioMedicine has identified a significant link between exposure to di-2-ethylhexyl <span>phthalate</span> (DEHP)—a chemical commonly used to make plastics more flexible—and heart disease deaths. Surprisingly, among the 200 countries evaluated, India had the highest burden of DEHP-linked cardiovascular deaths and accounted for almost a third of the global mortalities.

DEHP is prevalent in numerous household items, including food containers, medical equipment, toys, shampoos and lotions. The study, conducted by researchers at NYU Langone Health, analysed urine samples and environmental data from over 200 countries and territories. They found that in 2018, DEHP exposure was associated with around 356,238 deaths among individuals aged 55 to 64, accounting for over 13 per cent of global heart disease deaths in that age group. The researchers attributed India's elevated mortality to the rapid expansion of its plastics industry, widespread use of DEHP-containing products and weaker regulatory controls compared to some other nations. 

It is estimated that chemicals in plastic were linked to nearly 350,000 heart disease deaths across the world in 2018. Adding to that, is this study published in the journal eBioMedicine, which estimated that roughly 13 per cent of cardiovascular deaths among 55- to 64-year-olds worldwide that year could be attributed to phthalates.

Where Are Phthalates are esters of phthalic acids, which are added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity. They are found in personal care products like shampoos and lotions as well as in food containers and packaging. It is also possible to ingest them through food, absorb them through skin from products containing them or breathe them from dust.

<h2>Study Shows Phthalates Increase Risk of Heart Diseases</h2>

Some studies have shown an association between phthalates and cardiovascular disease, but there isn’t strong evidence to show that the chemicals directly cause heart issues, said Sung Kyun Park, a professor of epidemiology and environmental sciences at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. However, there is enough evidence that states that phthalates increase the risk of metabolic disorders like obesity and Type 2 diabetes, which can cause cardiovascular disease. One way phthalates may do this is by increasing oxidative stress—cell and tissue damage that happens when there are too many unstable molecules in the body—and by promoting inflammation. 

Cardiovascular Diseases

Plastic

Deaths due to plastic

Phthalate

Health issues in India

Thousands of Indians die every year from heart disease. Now you may link it to high cholesterol and a lack of physical exercise, but the reality is different. According to researchers, these deaths are a result of exposure to a harmful chemical that is present in shampoos, food containers and all other common household plastic products. A recent study published in The Lancet eBioMedicine has identified a significant link between exposure to di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP)—a chemical commonly used to make plastics more flexible—and heart disease deaths. Surprisingly, among the 200 countries evaluated, India had the highest burden of DEHP-linked cardiovascular deaths and accounted for almost a third of the global mortalities.What Is DEHP?DEHP is prevalent in numerous household items, including food containers, medical equipment, toys, shampoos and lotions. The study, conducted by researchers at NYU Langone Health, analysed urine samples and environmental data from over 200 countries and territories. They found that in 2018, DEHP exposure was associated with around 356,238 deaths among individuals aged 55 to 64, accounting for over 13 per cent of global heart disease deaths in that age group. The researchers attributed India's elevated mortality to the rapid expansion of its plastics industry, widespread use of DEHP-containing products and weaker regulatory controls compared to some other nations. It is estimated that chemicals in plastic were linked to nearly 350,000 heart disease deaths across the world in 2018. Adding to that, is this study published in the journal eBioMedicine, which estimated that roughly 13 per cent of cardiovascular deaths among 55- to 64-year-olds worldwide that year could be attributed to phthalates.Where Are Phthalates are esters of phthalic acids, which are added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity. They are found in personal care products like shampoos and lotions as well as in food containers and packaging. It is also possible to ingest them through food, absorb them through skin from products containing them or breathe them from dust.Study Shows Phthalates Increase Risk of Heart DiseasesSome studies have shown an association between phthalates and cardiovascular disease, but there isn’t strong evidence to show that the chemicals directly cause heart issues, said Sung Kyun Park, a professor of epidemiology and environmental sciences at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. However, there is enough evidence that states that phthalates increase the risk of metabolic disorders like obesity and Type 2 diabetes, which can cause cardiovascular disease. One way phthalates may do this is by increasing oxidative stress—cell and tissue damage that happens when there are too many unstable molecules in the body—and by promoting inflammation. 

not cholesterol: surprising chemical in shampoo bottles tied to heart-related deaths in india

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