"Women of reproductive age (20-40 years) were found to have significantly higher levels of monobutyl phthalate, a reproductive and developmental toxicant in rodents, than other age/gender groups. From a public health perspective, these data provide evidence that phthalate exposure is both higher and more common than previously suspected," the CDC investigators wrote.

The investigators also speculated that the higher levels in women of reproductive age were due to the use of cosmetics such as perfume, nail polishes, and hair sprays. The extensive use of these products among women is probably leading to the inhalation and absorption of this chemical through the lungs, the investigators said.

The report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) (LINK) entitled "Beauty Secrets" suggests that the substance may be responsible for the following problems, which have increased during the 1970s and '80s:

• Declining sperm counts

The EWG says that getting any immediate regulatory action passed is virtually impossible, due to the fact that the associations are difficult to impossible to prove. Under the current regulations, the responsibility of proving that there is a public health threat from cosmetics primarily falls upon US health authorities rather than the manufacturers.

For a list of nail products containing DBP CLICK HERE

For the full "Beauty Secrets" report (PDF file) CLICK HERE

For the abstract from the CDC study CLICK HERE

Dr. Mercola's Comments:

These phthalates are dangerous chemicals. We discussed in last week's newsletter some of their dangers. It would be best to avoid them as much as possible by not using cosmetics that contain them. This is especially true for women who are, or may become pregnant, but is also true for others who wish to be as healthy as possible. The health effects of these chemicals will not be completely known for many years to come. In the meantime, they will likely harm many people needlessly. It is just a ridiculous policy to place the burden of proof on the government to prove the chemicals harmful in order for them to be restricted or removed. It should be required that the manufacturers prove that they are safe BEFORE they are even allowed on the market. Related Article: Phthalate Plasticizers Dangerous, Especially to Children Is Your IV Glass or Plastic?