Could Microplastics Be Impacting Our Handwriting?

Study Overview

Recent research has indicated that exposure to phthalates may negatively influence fine motor skills in girls. Phthalates are a group of chemicals frequently found in plastic containers and personal care products.

Understanding Phthalates

Phthalates are categorized into two families: DEHP and non-DEHP. Numerous chemicals from both families are present in everyday products, contributing to the softness, flexibility, and clarity of plastics used in food packaging and children’s toys. Additionally, they serve as solvents in fragrances, air fresheners, certain pill coatings, adhesives, paints, grooming products, and electronics.

Health Implications of Phthalates

While phthalates are widely used, their effects on human health are just beginning to be understood. These chemicals are known to disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates hormones. Emerging research suggests they may adversely affect male fertility and increase the risks of obesity, diabetes, and cancer. Most concerning is the potential harm to unborn children, as phthalates can cross the placenta, entering the baby’s bloodstream and potentially impacting development.

Cognitive and Motor Function Effects

Evidence suggests that phthalates may lead to cognitive and behavioral issues, alongside motor function impairments. A recent study examined various phthalates and their combinations in the urine of pregnant women, assessing the motor function of their children as they reached eleven years of age.

Research Methodology

The study involved over 200 pregnant women, with urine samples collected during the third trimester. Once the children reached eleven, researchers evaluated their motor skills using specific tests to assess both gross motor skills and fine motor skills, which include tasks like handwriting and manipulating small objects.

Key Findings

The research revealed that three phthalates from the DEHP family (MBP, MBZP, and MIBP), along with non-DEHP phthalates, appeared to impair fine motor skills in the eleven-year-old girls, unlike their male counterparts. This conclusion remained valid even after controlling for various factors, including maternal smoking, alcohol consumption during pregnancy, marital status, mental health, child age and weight, ethnic background, and home environment.

Potential Mechanisms of Impact

Researchers speculate that the disruption in fine motor skills may be linked to phthalates’ effect on the thyroid gland, which produces hormones vital for brain development. The cerebellum, critical for balance and movement, could be adversely affected if thyroid hormone production is disrupted. Notably, girls tend to develop their motor skills earlier than boys, which may explain the observed differences in their performance.

Considerations and Limitations

It is important to consider the study’s context. The mothers involved were from lower socio-economic neighborhoods in New York City, where lower socio-economic status is associated with diminished motor skills and increased phthalate exposure. Consequently, the impact of phthalates on motor skills in a broader population may differ, and general pregnant women may experience lower levels of exposure than those studied.

Conclusion

This research contributes to the growing body of evidence regarding the health effects of phthalates. Understanding these potential side effects is crucial for recognizing the risks of these chemicals in our daily lives.

References

Daniel, S. et al (2020). Perinatal phthalates exposure decreases fine-motor functions in 11-year-old girls: Results from weighted Quantile sum regression. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412019325115?via%3Dihub

Plasticizers may contribute to motor control problems in girls. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-01/cums-pmc010620.php

Wikipedia entry on Phthalates. (2020). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phthalate

Image by stux-12364 from Pixabay.