The economic impact of DEHP-related deaths is substantial, estimated between $510 billion and $3.7 trillion, placing a heavy burden on global healthcare systems.

In India alone, more than 100,000 deaths annually are attributed to heart disease caused by chemicals in plastics, particularly phthalates, highlighting a significant public health crisis.

The study, which analyzed population surveys from 200 countries alongside mortality data, underscores the urgent need for global health interventions regarding plastic exposure.

DEHP is commonly used as a plasticizer in food packaging and medical equipment, making these products softer and more flexible, but it is known to leach out over time, leading to widespread exposure.

Researchers are calling for urgent global regulations to limit phthalate exposure, particularly in rapidly industrializing nations like India, where plastic consumption is high.

India generates approximately 9.3 million metric tons of plastic waste annually, contributing significantly to health crises linked to plastic pollution.

A recent study by NYU Langone Health revealed that exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalates (DEHP) was linked to over 356,000 deaths worldwide in 2018, representing more than 13% of global heart disease mortality among those aged 55 to 64.

India's high mortality rate from phthalate exposure is exacerbated by the unregulated use of plastics, especially in food packaging, and weak enforcement of safety standards.

Despite implementing partial bans on single-use plastics, India struggles with inconsistent enforcement, emphasizing the necessity for stronger regulations to protect public health.

Countries like India, China, and Indonesia account for nearly half of the global death toll associated with DEHP, with India reporting the highest estimated deaths at over 103,000.

Microplastics, resulting from the breakdown of plastics, pose additional health risks as they can enter the food chain and human body, increasing exposure to harmful chemicals.

The study highlights geographic disparities in DEHP exposure, with regions like the Middle East and South Asia facing the highest health risks, prompting calls for stricter regulations on toxic substances.