New research shows a class of chemicals found in pesticides, paints, and other common household items could have adverse effects on the reproductive development of human male babies.
Researchers have known for years that phthalates, a family of chemicals found in paints, pesticides, and consumer products like shampoo, soap, and makeup, can have detrimental effects on genital and reproductive development in male rats. Now for the first time, a study looks at possible impacts on male human babies. Host Steve Curwood talks to Shanna Swan, one of the study’s authors, about the results.