Do Plastic Toys Cause Gynecomastia?
Are Plastic Toys Responsible For Gynecomastia?
Reuters report that research scientists at Hacettepe University in Ankara, Turkey have discovered a link between phthalates, a type of plastic commonly used in toys and other consumer products and Pubertal Gynecomastia. The condition causes the enlargement of breasts in young males.
The levels of the particular type of phthalate, DEHP and its byproduct MEHP were found to be elevated in 65% of boys aged between 11 and 15 who were showing signs of gynecomastia.
Phthalates, in particular DEHP and MEHP are widely used to increase the flexibility of plastics and are a common component of many everyday items. Dr. Elif N. Ozmert from Hacettepe University said, “A few examples are personal care products, paints, building materials, household furnishing, clothing, dentures, children’s toys, cleaning materials, insecticides, food, certain medical devices and pharmaceuticals.”
People who are exposed to high levels of Phthalates can, over time, develop serious health issues such as sexual development problems and shortened pregnancy. It is believed that small children exposed to soft plastic toys are particularly vulnerable. Although the Pubertal Gynecomastia generally resolves itself during puberty.
The study concluded that boys showing the highest MEHP blood levels were almost 25 times more likely to develop gynecomastia than those with lower levels.
It also suggested that DEHP is imitating estrogen leading to gynecomastia.
Source: http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE5BD39920091214
December 27th, 2009 at 7:12 am
Oh this is a new knowledge for me. Phthalates, a chemical that is very dangerous because it affects the hormone testosterone in boys. I heard this in google. is this true ?
December 30th, 2009 at 9:00 am
Chemicals in plastics alter the brains of baby boys. But the plastics industry argue that the material normally used to soften plastics and stabilize fragrances, is safe. Which one should I believe ?
December 30th, 2009 at 3:58 pm
@Whitney, difficult question to answer. I would say that the reports of plastics causing gynecomastia in young boys are, to my mind at least, believable. However, it is only from one research organization. I would like to see the evidence corroborated before fixing my opinion.
January 2nd, 2010 at 11:40 am
Some research states that phthalates affect the hormone levels. Also a recent study states that exposure to phthalates in the womb might make boys more likely to play with toys typically associated with girls. I was really excited when heard this.
January 12th, 2010 at 2:47 pm
There are many known cases of gynecomastia throughout the world, a condition in which either one or both of a man’s breasts are enlarged. There are a variety of reasons why such a condition may develop, from simply being born with it to developing it later in life.
March 23rd, 2010 at 9:07 am
Please create much more! This specific post was so in-depth and highly accurate. I actually loved looking through your posting. Thanks!
April 7th, 2010 at 6:35 am
Are your childrens toys making their breasts grow?…
Scientists discover a connection between phthalates, a type of plastic commonly used in toys Gynecomastia. The condition causes the enlargement of breasts in young males….
April 8th, 2010 at 10:10 am
Thanks for sharing such a useful information. Many parents are still not aware about the harmful effects of plastic toys. Many of the plastic toys contain harmful chemicals /PVC which can be very harmful to children if they put it in their mouth. I would suggest going for wooden toys which are much safer & natural and durable too.
April 8th, 2010 at 10:58 am
I completely agree with your opinion on plastic toys. Not only gynecomastia but there are various other disadvantages of using plastic toys for kids. As a parent safety of my child is the most important factor & hence i always prefer wooden toys compared to the plastic ones. Wooden toys are not only safe but also environmental friendly. I would highly recommend parents not to buy plastic toy for their kids.
April 10th, 2010 at 8:40 am
Can your childrens toys cause gynecomastia?…
Can your childrens toys cause their breasts to grow? Scientists have discovered a link between the plastic many toys are made from and Pubertal Gynecomastia….
April 10th, 2010 at 5:42 pm
Is gynecomastia caused by childrens toys?…
Scientists discover a connection between phthalates, a type of plastic commonly used in toys Gynecomastia. The condition causes the enlargement of breasts in young males….
April 14th, 2010 at 3:13 am
Are your childrens toys making their breasts grow?…
Turkish scienyists have discovered a link between a type of plastic commonly used in toys and other consumer products and Pubertal Gynecomastia. The condition causes the enlargement of breasts in young males….
April 18th, 2010 at 12:02 am
Is gynecomastia caused by childrens toys?…
Scientists discover a connection between phthalates, a type of plastic commonly used in toys Gynecomastia. The condition causes the enlargement of breasts in young males….
April 18th, 2010 at 9:43 pm
Can your childrens toys cause gynecomastia?…
Scientists have discovered a link between type of plastic commonly used in toys and Pubertal Gynecomastia….
May 6th, 2010 at 5:37 am
You must like this kinds of rc toys
May 18th, 2010 at 3:06 am
Great post about toys health. But how is actually the impact of plastic toys for Gynecomastia cause?
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May 19th, 2010 at 5:09 pm
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May 24th, 2010 at 4:20 am
I think we must take care our child about their plastic toys.
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