Is Plastic Medical Tubing Toxic?
Many babies born prematurely are transferred to intensive care units, where plastic tubes are attached to help them breathe and supply needed nutrients. But researchers have known for years that these and other plastic medical devices can emit a toxic substance caused by a manufacturing additive used to make the devices flexible and strong, reports MSNBC News. The additive, di-(2ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), is believed to impact sperm production in rodents, and estrogen levels and fertility in female rats, MSNBC says. And last year, the Food and Drug Administration reported that DEHP levels found in IV tubing may harm sexual development in male infants. But the FDA has yet to recommend alternative devices or what to do to protect people most at risk, namely infants and young children. An FDA spokesman declined to comment to MSNBC on the agency’s plans or timeframe. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has said that although DEHP has been proven to cause cancer and fertilit
