US study of phthalates needs scrutiny

US study of phthalates needs scrutiny - Vinyl Council Australia

Media Statement
17 November, 2009

As a new US pilot study published yesterday by Dr Shanna Swan, uses unproven research methods to link phthalates to behavioural changes in boys, it is important for additional scientific experts to consider the robustness of this study.

The study suggests that males exposed to high doses of two particular types of phthalates in the womb are less likely to play with boys' toys like cars. Dr Swan, of the University of Rochester in the US, admits “Our results need to be confirmed” and the results are not straightforward.

There are a number of different types of phthalates in use in Australia. The most commonly used in products such as vinyl flooring and cables – DINP and DIDP - have been comprehensively risked assessed recently by the European Union and found safe for use.

The Australian chemical regulatory authority, the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) is currently completing risk assessments for nine common phthalates including DEHP, one of the phthalates which was studied by Dr Swan.

The Australian PVC industry is committed to the safe use of additives in its products. The industry’s Product Stewardship Program includes a commitment to adhere to the ‘Policy for the use of phthalate plasticisers’.

This Policy commits Signatories to the Program to cease the use of a phthalate plasticiser in any application where available scientific evidence shows it to have unacceptable health or environmental impacts. The Policy also requires industry through the Vinyl Council to monitor closely the scientific developments in relation to phthalates. We use independent toxicology expertise to improve our understanding of the science.

Dr Swan’s findings have been published in the International Journal of Andrology.

The American Chemistry Council has responded to the study: http://www.americanchemistry.com/10459

The Vinyl Council of Australia (VCA) is working to advance the sustainability of the vinyl, or PVC, industry in Australia. Its members are drawn across the supply chain of the vinyl industry.

For further information: contact Neva Law, Vinyl Council of Australia, directly on 03 9368 4857 and 0405 772 700.

Visit www.vinyl.org.au and www.pvcproductstewardship.org.au