Exposure to a common plastic chemical before and shortly after birth may have lasting effects on behavior, according to new research. Scientists found that male rats exposed early in life to DEHP—a plasticizer used in products like medical devices and toys—showed significantly higher anxiety as adults, even long after exposure ended.
The findings add to a growing body of evidence linking plastic chemicals to neurological and behavioral disorders. DEHP is one of the most widely used phthalates, and its effects on development have been a focus of regulatory scrutiny. The study underscores how early-life chemical exposure can shape adult mental health.
Researchers observed that exposed rats were more hesitant to explore open spaces and spent more time frozen in place—classic signs of anxiety in rodents. The behavioral changes persisted into adulthood, suggesting the compound alters brain development in ways that are not easily reversed.
The results raise questions about the safety of current exposure limits for DEHP in consumer products. The chemical remains common in household items despite growing restrictions in some regions, including the European Union.
It is unclear whether the same effects translate to humans, though the rodent model is considered a strong indicator of potential risk.