Topic: Exposure to phthalates and Health Threat

Phthalates, as widely used plasticizers, are deeply embedded into various industries, including food packaging, cosmetics, decoration materials, and medical equipment. Annual global consumption of phthalates has reportedly surpassed 8 million tons. Due to their binding to plastics through weak non-covalent bonds, such as hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces, phthalates are prone to leaching into the environment. These fat-soluble synthetic endocrine disruptors pose significant threats to human health, including reproductive system damage, impaired infant development, and potential teratogenic, carcinogenic, and mutagenic effects. Therefore, the association between phthalate exposure and a range of health issues has become a pressing global scientific concern that requires urgent attention.

This Special Issue focuses on cutting-edge research and key findings in the field of phthalate studies. Topics of interest include the pathways of phthalate exposure, current levels of environmental pollution, the health threat to various populations and organisms, and the underlying mechanisms of action. This issue aims to provide a systematic and comprehensive body of scientific evidence and a solid theoretical basis for researchers in relevant academic fields and for policymakers involved in decision-making processes.

All submissions MUST address the implications for human and/or wildlife exposure to contaminants. For additional guidance, please refer to the Aims and Scope of JEEA.

Phthalates, plasticizers, exposure pathway, toxic effect, molecular mechanism, health risk assessment

30 Apr 2025