Plastic chemicals linked to $249 billion in US health care costs in 2018 alone, study finds

A recent study found that hormone-disrupting plastic chemicals cost the US healthcare system over $249 billion in 2018. These chemicals contribute to chronic diseases and early deaths, including cancer, childhood brain damage, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. This highlights the need for stricter plastic production regulations and a societal discussion on the true cost of plastics, following the "polluter pays" principle.

The study focused on four chemical groups in plastic production: flame retardants (PBDE), phthalates (used for durability), bisphenols (BPA and BPS in hard plastics), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Flame retardants had the highest healthcare cost impact due to neurobehavioral effects. Phthalates linked to reproductive issues, childhood obesity, asthma, cardiovascular problems, and cancer contributed $67 billion in 2018 healthcare costs. Bisphenols, found in various products, accounted for $1 billion in costs and were linked to fetal abnormalities, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and premature death. PFAS exposure led to $22 billion in healthcare expenses, linked to kidney cancer, high cholesterol, and reduced immunity.

This study emphasizes the urgency of stricter regulations and greater public awareness regarding plastic's health effects. Policymakers, consumers, and industries must take responsibility to mitigate the health risks associated with these chemicals.