Asthma in children could be triggered by plastic exposure, lead to obesity and infertility in adulthood

Causes of asthma, obesity, chronic diseases in children: Early-life exposure to plastic-related toxins is linked to a wide range of health problems, including asthma, obesity, heart disease, infertility, and developmental disorders like autism and ADHD, says the study (Image: Canva)

It turns out your child’s lunchbox, plastic toys, or even the cling film wrapping their snacks could be  putting their health at risk for life. A new analysis by NYU Langone Health suggests that early exposure to certain plastic chemicals can lay the foundation for serious long-term conditions like obesity, infertility, asthma, and even neurological issues.

In a recent  review published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, scientists examined hundreds of studies covering thousands of pregnant women, children, and babies. According to the study, plastics surrounding us daily — especially those used in packaging, household goods, and cosmetics — can interfere with hormones, ignite chronic inflammation, and even lower IQ.

Three classes of chemicals are under scrutiny: phthalates (which make plastic flexible), bisphenols (used for rigidity), and PFAS (added for water and heat resistance).

Also read | Pulmonologist flags rise in childhood asthma as smog worsens; suggests prevention tips

Children are particularly vulnerable, according to lead author Dr Leonardo Trasande, a paediatrician and environmental health expert. "Our findings point to plastic’s role in the early origins of many chronic diseases. If we want kids to live longer, healthier lives, we must start cutting unnecessary plastic use now," he said.

The data suggests that early-life exposure to plastic-related toxins is linked to a wide range of health problems. These include asthma, obesity, heart disease, infertility, and developmental disorders like autism and ADHD. Researchers also found consistent connections between chemical exposure and inflammation throughout the body — often an early marker for chronic disease.

Conspicuously, plastic chemicals seem to interfere with the delicate hormone systems that regulate growth, metabolism, and brain development. In children, this may translate into lifelong impacts, from difficulty concentrating in school to fertility struggles later in life.

Simple solutions and sweeping reforms:

Nevertheless, some protective steps are available. Reduce risk by swapping plastic containers for glass or metal. Avoid  heating plastic in the microwave, and being cautious with items like food wraps and receipts. These seemingly small changes can help lower exposure. But personal responsibility isn’t enough. Trasande and his colleagues are calling for global policy changes—especially in low-income communities where health risks are amplified.

Also read | Asthma in children: Avoid triggers that flare-up in summer, manage air quality, plus tips to manage symptoms

Plastics in medicine:

Researchers were quick to clarify that plastics still serve essential roles in healthcare, such as ventilators, nebulisers, and feeding tubes. The issue isn’t all plastic—it’s unnecessary plastic. By cutting wasteful everyday use, they argue, we can reduce harm without sacrificing medical progress.

FAQs on the Health Risks of Plastics

1. What health risks are associated with plastic exposure in children?

Early exposure to plastic chemicals can lead to obesity, infertility, asthma, neurological issues, heart disease, and developmental disorders like autism and ADHD.

2. Which chemicals in plastics pose health risks?

Phthalates, bisphenols, and PFAS are the main chemicals in plastics that pose health risks by interfering with hormones and causing chronic inflammation.

3. How does plastic exposure affect children's health specifically?

Plastic chemicals can disrupt hormone systems, impact growth, metabolism, and brain development, resulting in issues like concentration difficulties and fertility problems later in life.

4. What are some ways to reduce plastic exposure at home?

Use glass or metal containers instead of plastic, avoid heating plastic in the microwave, and be cautious with items like food wraps and receipts.

5. Is all plastic harmful to health?

Not all plastic is harmful. Essential medical plastics, like those in ventilators and feeding tubes, are beneficial. The focus should be on reducing unnecessary plastic use in daily life to minimize health risks.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.