Poster Abstract:
Background: Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a widely used plasticizer in PVC medical devices and products such as IV tubing, blood bags, respiratory support, and catheters. Despite its functionality and low cost, it has been attributed to significant health risks, including endocrine and reproductive disruption, and is a known carcinogen and obesogen as well as an extensive environmental contaminant.
Scope: This poster focuses on DEHP use in health care, along with its health and environmental effects. It highlights concerns about both patient safety and broader ecological sustainability.
Methods: An environmental scan and a review of the literature was conducted, analyzing prevalence of DEHP use in healthcare settings, adverse health outcomes related to DEHP use, and perspectives of industry and advocacy groups.
Findings: DEHP exposure in clinical settings remains highest for neonates, infants, and those receiving intensive or long-term therapeutic interventions, (e.g., dialysis, chemotherapy). These exposures raise concern for patient safety along with environmental impacts from manufacturing, leaching, and plastic waste accumulation. Although non-DEHP and non-PVC alternatives exist, barriers such as cost, clinical awareness, and limited regulatory mandates slow adoption.
Conclusion: The continued use of products with DEHP highlights the need for more education about the health and environmental effects of DEHP use, awareness of existing advocacy efforts, and the opportunity to engage in practices that are safer for patients and the environment.
Implications for Practice: Understanding the dual health and environmental risks of DEHP empowers clinicians to advocate for safer and more sustainable options in our health care delivery systems.