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DiButyl Phthalate and the Effects of Exposure

DiButyl phthalate (DBP), also known as dibutyl phthalate, a compound found in various cosmetics including nail polish, has adverse effects on the development of the reproductive tract in males. Used extensively in the adhesives industry and as a solvent for many oil-soluble dyes, DBP is used frequently in salon grade nail polish to make it chip resistant.

There is now mounting evidence that DBP can have drastic adverse effects on the reproductive development of males whose mothers were exposed to DBP during pregnancy. Extensive animal studies have demonstrated that DBP acts to lower testosterone levels in gestating males, thereby causing changes to male genitalia, including undescended testicles, hypospadias and sexual ambiguity. The EPA has recently released a toxicological profile of the compound, stating that the effects witnessed in lab studies may be applicable to humans. Moreover, epidemiological studies have associated increased phthalate exposure with decreased testosterone levels and increased sexual ambiguity in newborn males.

The dangers associated with DBP are being recognized. In April 2005, European lawmakers banned the compound from use in cosmetics, and because of pressure being applied by various environmental groups, several cosmetic manufacturers are now discontinuing its use in the US. As reported in the September 7th New York Times, Orly International and OPI Products have already started selling reformulated nail polishes without the chemical, and Sally Hansen has stated it will discontinue the use of DBP in its products in 2007.

DBP poses the largest risk to pregnant women. If you believe that your son experienced in utero exposure to DBP and has an abnormality of his genitalia, you may be able to hold cosmetic manufacturers responsible. Weitz and Luxenberg is actively involved in the representation of those injured in utero by DBP. To find out if you have a case, fill out the form below for a free case evaluation.

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see also:

Environmental Exposure What to know about DiButyl Phthalate and Environmental Exposure
Find out about the risky Environmental Exposure of DiButyl Phthalate

Information What information you should know about DiButyl Phthalate
Have you been exposed to DiButyl Phthalate? Know the basic information

News & Warnings Get the latest news and warnings regarding Dibutyl Phthalate
News & Warnings for the dangerous cosmetics chemical Dibutyl Phthalate

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