New study links plastics chemical to diabetes risk

Individuals who are regularly exposed to PVC plastic and certain cosmetics may have a higher risk of developing diabetes and requiring a prescription to buy Actos. A new study has linked a common component of these products to metabolic risk factors.

Phthalates are chemicals used in many different types of plastic and certain cosmetic products. Most people come into contact with them on a daily basis. However, the new study published in the journal Diabetes Care suggests that these compounds may disrupt insulin production, putting individuals at risk for developing diabetes.

For the study, researchers examined blood samples from more than 1,000 individuals over the age of 70. The results showed that those who had the highest levels of phthalate metabolites in their blood were significantly more likely to have diabetes. This association persisted independent of participants' weight and other metabolic risk factors.

Still, the researchers said their findings are among the first to show this association between phthalates and diabetes risk. More studies are needed to confirm this link and determine the metabolic reactions that allow phthalates to cause diabetes.