Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Over 2 Million Eye Drops Recalled In U.S. Amid Alarming Risk Of Blindness And Irreversible Damage

A massive recall has been issued for over 2 million eye drop cartons due to concerns over sterility that can be potentially harmful and lead to serious eye infections, blindness, and even permanent blindness in extreme cases.

The voluntary recall, issued jointly by AvKARE, a Tennessee pharmaceutical distributor, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is being labeled a Class II recall—meaning that although the danger of serious harm is relatively minor, the harm can be transient or medically reversible.

The eye drops were recalled from store shelves after an FDA audit uncovered manufacturing deficiencies that rendered product sterility in doubt. Although neither the FDA nor AvKARE would reveal the specifics regarding the manufacturing deficiencies, the notice of recall mentioned a "lack of assurance of sterility"—a rather disturbing red flag for products that are applied directly to the eyes.

Ophthalmic sterility is non-negotiable. A compromise of sterility, however slight, invites bacterial contamination, which has the potential to penetrate the soft tissues of the eye and develop catastrophic infections.

These products have been shipped between May 26, 2023, and April 21, 2025, which could have endangered millions of customers—particularly those who are addressing chronic dry eye symptoms or season allergies.

<h2>How Can Eye Drops Cause Blindness?</h2>

To the typical consumer, a contaminated eye drop bottle may not appear to be anything. But the reality is darker. Non-sterile solutions can be a portal of entry for bacteria, fungi, or even parasites, all of which can wreak havoc on the internal environment of the eye.

In 2023, when contaminated eye drops containing a drug-resistant bacteria strain caused 50 infections in 11 U.S. states. That outbreak caused one death and several cases of permanent blindness, highlighting just how perilous contaminated eye drops are.

More disturbing is the likelihood that consumers will unknowingly use these recalled products, particularly at the height of allergy season, when dry eyes are a frequent complaint and over-the-counter relief is in high demand.

If you have recently used one of the recalled eye drops, beware of these warning signs of potential infection:

<ul><li>Redness or swelling of the eye</li><li>Pain or stinging</li><li>Blurred vision or visual changes</li><li>Abnormal discharge or watery eyes</li><li>Increased sensitivity to light</li></ul>

Although no health problems have yet been officially reported regarding this particular recall, an early intervention is always the best course of action. If infection is suspected, stop using at once and seek an ophthalmologist. AvKARE has put out a strong notice:

Immediately stop using the recalled products. Retailers are requested to pull the products from store shelves and return all unsold merchandise to the distributor for a full refund, including the cost of return shipping.

The recall was initiated by BRS Analytical Service, LLC, an independent laboratory that tests pharmaceuticals for compliance. The action demonstrates growing scrutiny from the FDA, particularly after last year's death from eye drops.

Although the identity of the manufacturer is not revealed, the FDA has not eliminated further action, particularly if more products prove to be dangerous.

<h2>What This Means For Your <span rel="noindex">Eye Health</span>?</h2>

This event brings to the fore the larger issues regarding the regulation and testing of over-the-counter (OTC) eye care products. It acts as a reminder for consumers and medical professionals alike to ensure that proper eye hygiene, product handling, and consultation with medical practitioners at the right time are ensured.

Even synthetic tears, deemed by most to be harmless, may induce temporary blurring of the vision, allergic reactions, or introduce irritants in the form of preservatives or thickeners if improperly used. No prescription or OTC eye drop should be employed for longer than recommended, and sharing usage is strictly avoided.

The patient should also understand that improper packaging and expired usage can weaken the product and even inflict more harm. Always examine the seal and expiration date and never use bottles with broken or tampered packages.

<h2>What To Do If Your Eyes Are Affected?</h2>

You may see a complete list of the products recalled and lot numbers on the FDA or AvKARE's official notice of recall webpage. If you already have the affected eye drops:

<ul><li>Discontinue use immediately.</li><li>Place them in a sealed bag to avoid accidental opening.</li><li>Get a refund or disposal guidance from your retailer.</li><li>Consult a healthcare professional if you're experiencing symptoms.</li></ul>

Medical practitioners are also cautioned to inform the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program about any product quality issues or adverse events. 

Stay up to date, read labels attentively, and never settle for the safety of what you put in your eyes. If you use eye drops frequently, think about talking to a certified ophthalmologist to discuss preservative-free options and individualized choices that are safer for long-term use.

Health Conditions A-Z

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eye health

eye drop recall 2025

fda eye drop warning

avkare eye drops

dry eye treatment risks

non-sterile eye drops danger

recalled eye drop brands

vision loss from eye drops

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A massive recall has been issued for over 2 million eye drop cartons due to concerns over sterility that can be potentially harmful and lead to serious eye infections, blindness, and even permanent blindness in extreme cases.The voluntary recall, issued jointly by AvKARE, a Tennessee pharmaceutical distributor, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is being labeled a Class II recall—meaning that although the danger of serious harm is relatively minor, the harm can be transient or medically reversible.The eye drops were recalled from store shelves after an FDA audit uncovered manufacturing deficiencies that rendered product sterility in doubt. Although neither the FDA nor AvKARE would reveal the specifics regarding the manufacturing deficiencies, the notice of recall mentioned a "lack of assurance of sterility"—a rather disturbing red flag for products that are applied directly to the eyes.Ophthalmic sterility is non-negotiable. A compromise of sterility, however slight, invites bacterial contamination, which has the potential to penetrate the soft tissues of the eye and develop catastrophic infections.These products have been shipped between May 26, 2023, and April 21, 2025, which could have endangered millions of customers—particularly those who are addressing chronic dry eye symptoms or season allergies.How Can Eye Drops Cause Blindness?To the typical consumer, a contaminated eye drop bottle may not appear to be anything. But the reality is darker. Non-sterile solutions can be a portal of entry for bacteria, fungi, or even parasites, all of which can wreak havoc on the internal environment of the eye.In 2023, when contaminated eye drops containing a drug-resistant bacteria strain caused 50 infections in 11 U.S. states. That outbreak caused one death and several cases of permanent blindness, highlighting just how perilous contaminated eye drops are.More disturbing is the likelihood that consumers will unknowingly use these recalled products, particularly at the height of allergy season, when dry eyes are a frequent complaint and over-the-counter relief is in high demand.If you have recently used one of the recalled eye drops, beware of these warning signs of potential infection:Redness or swelling of the eyePain or stingingBlurred vision or visual changesAbnormal discharge or watery eyesIncreased sensitivity to lightAlthough no health problems have yet been officially reported regarding this particular recall, an early intervention is always the best course of action. If infection is suspected, stop using at once and seek an ophthalmologist. AvKARE has put out a strong notice:Immediately stop using the recalled products. Retailers are requested to pull the products from store shelves and return all unsold merchandise to the distributor for a full refund, including the cost of return shipping.The recall was initiated by BRS Analytical Service, LLC, an independent laboratory that tests pharmaceuticals for compliance. The action demonstrates growing scrutiny from the FDA, particularly after last year's death from eye drops.Although the identity of the manufacturer is not revealed, the FDA has not eliminated further action, particularly if more products prove to be dangerous.What This Means For Your Eye Health?This event brings to the fore the larger issues regarding the regulation and testing of over-the-counter (OTC) eye care products. It acts as a reminder for consumers and medical professionals alike to ensure that proper eye hygiene, product handling, and consultation with medical practitioners at the right time are ensured.Even synthetic tears, deemed by most to be harmless, may induce temporary blurring of the vision, allergic reactions, or introduce irritants in the form of preservatives or thickeners if improperly used. No prescription or OTC eye drop should be employed for longer than recommended, and sharing usage is strictly avoided.The patient should also understand that improper packaging and expired usage can weaken the product and even inflict more harm. Always examine the seal and expiration date and never use bottles with broken or tampered packages.What To Do If Your Eyes Are Affected?You may see a complete list of the products recalled and lot numbers on the FDA or AvKARE's official notice of recall webpage. If you already have the affected eye drops:Discontinue use immediately.Place them in a sealed bag to avoid accidental opening.Get a refund or disposal guidance from your retailer.Consult a healthcare professional if you're experiencing symptoms.Medical practitioners are also cautioned to inform the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program about any product quality issues or adverse events. Stay up to date, read labels attentively, and never settle for the safety of what you put in your eyes. If you use eye drops frequently, think about talking to a certified ophthalmologist to discuss preservative-free options and individualized choices that are safer for long-term use.

over 2 million eye drops recalled in u.s. amid alarming risk of blindness and irreversible damage

Riya Baibhawi

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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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