"Chemical in Plastics May Alter Boys' Genitals Before Birth"

"Baby boys who are exposed in the womb to a chemical used in soft plastics may show small signs of altered genital development, according to new research published today.

The study, which included more than 700 infants in four U.S. cities, is the largest of its kind to date. It confirms earlier findings in humans and animals that exposure to certain types of chemicals called phthalates may lead to changes in the way the male reproductive tract develops, said Dr. Russ Hauser, an epidemiologist at the Harvard School of Public Health, who was not involved in the new study.

Phthalates are a large group of industrial chemicals used in a variety of consumer products, such as food packaging, flooring, perfumes and lotions."

Lindsey Konkel reports for Live Science February 19, 2015.

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"Plastics Report for Children's Toy Rule Is Flawed, Scientists Say" (The Hill)