Image illustrating the connection between plastic products and potential harm to human kidneys.

Are Phthalates Harming Your Kidneys? New Study Reveals the Hidden Dangers in Everyday Plastics

Rhea Morgan in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 5 min read.

"Uncover the link between phthalate exposure and impaired kidney function, especially in Shanghai adults, and how to protect yourself from these 'everywhere chemicals'."

In today's world, plastics are virtually unavoidable. They're in our food packaging, personal care products, children's toys, and countless other everyday items. But what if these ubiquitous plastics were silently impacting your health? A growing body of research suggests that phthalates, chemicals used to make plastics more flexible, could be taking a toll on your kidneys.

Phthalates are known as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body's hormonal system. While previous studies have linked phthalate exposure to reproductive and developmental issues, a recent study sheds light on a concerning connection to kidney health, particularly in adults. This is especially worrying considering the potential for long-term effects, as our kidneys filter toxins and maintain overall balance in the body.

This article delves into the findings of a detailed study conducted in Shanghai, China, exploring the relationship between urinary phthalate concentrations and impaired kidney function. We'll break down the key takeaways, what it means for your health, and practical steps you can take to minimize your exposure to these 'everywhere chemicals'.

The Shanghai Study: Unveiling the Phthalate-Kidney Connection

Image illustrating the connection between plastic products and potential harm to human kidneys.

Researchers from Fudan University and the University of Hawaii investigated the link between phthalate exposure and kidney function in a sample of 1,663 adults in Shanghai. Participants provided urine samples, which were then analyzed for the presence of ten common phthalate metabolites (breakdown products of phthalates) and key indicators of kidney function. The study used sophisticated statistical methods to tease out the relationship between these factors, while accounting for other potential influences like age, sex, diet, and lifestyle.

The study revealed a significant association between higher urinary concentrations of certain phthalate metabolites and impaired kidney function, as indicated by elevated levels of albumin, β2-microglobulin (B2M), and N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAG). In other words, adults with higher levels of phthalate byproducts in their urine tended to have poorer kidney function. This connection persisted even after considering other risk factors.

Key Phthalate Culprits: The metabolites of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and benzyl butyl phthalate (BBzP) were particularly implicated in impaired kidney function. DEHP is commonly used in food packaging and medical devices, while BBzP is found in some personal care products and adhesives.
Specific Impacts on Kidney Markers: The study identified that higher levels of phthalates were associated with increased levels of albumin, B2M, and NAG – all signs of potential kidney stress and damage. Albumin in the urine can indicate damage to the kidney's filtering units, while elevated B2M and NAG suggest problems with tubular function (the kidney's waste processing system).
Co-exposure Matters: The researchers also explored the effects of exposure to multiple phthalates simultaneously. Their analysis suggested that combined exposure to several phthalate metabolites further increased the risk of impaired kidney function.

This study stands out because it's one of the first to investigate the link between phthalates and kidney health in a large sample of adults. While previous research has focused primarily on children, this study highlights that the potential risks extend to adults as well.

Protecting Your Kidneys: Practical Steps to Reduce Phthalate Exposure

The findings of the Shanghai study provide a valuable wake-up call, highlighting the potential risks of phthalate exposure to kidney health. While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects, taking proactive steps to minimize your exposure to these chemicals is a wise choice. Remember, small changes in your daily habits can add up to a big difference in protecting your health and well-being. By being informed and making conscious choices, you can minimize your phthalate exposure and prioritize your kidney health.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.10.044, Alternate LINK

Title: Association Between Urinary Concentration Of Phthalate Metabolites And Impaired Renal Function In Shanghai Adults

Subject: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Journal: Environmental Pollution

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Authors: Jingsi Chen, Xiaofeng Zhou, Han Zhang, Yueming Liu, Chen Cao, Ruihua Dong, Yaqun Yuan, Min Wang, Yuanan Lu, Min Wu, Shuguang Li, Bo Chen

Published: 2019-02-01

Everything You Need To Know

What exactly are Phthalates, and where are they commonly found?

Phthalates are chemicals added to plastics to make them more flexible. They are found in numerous everyday items, including food packaging, personal care products, and children's toys. They are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body's hormonal system. Exposure to Phthalates has been linked to various health issues, including potential harm to kidney function, as highlighted in a recent study focusing on Shanghai adults.

How was the Shanghai study conducted, and what were its key findings?

The study conducted in Shanghai investigated the link between phthalate exposure and kidney function in 1,663 adults. Participants provided urine samples, which were analyzed for ten common phthalate metabolites, and kidney function indicators. Researchers used statistical methods to identify the connection between phthalate exposure and kidney health, while considering other factors. The study found a significant association between higher urinary concentrations of certain phthalate metabolites and impaired kidney function, as indicated by elevated levels of Albumin, B2M, and NAG. The study revealed that the metabolites of DEHP and BBzP were particularly implicated in impaired kidney function.

Which specific Phthalates were identified as being most harmful to kidney health, and why?

The Shanghai study found that the metabolites of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and benzyl butyl phthalate (BBzP) were particularly implicated in impaired kidney function. DEHP is often used in food packaging and medical devices, while BBzP can be found in personal care products and adhesives. Elevated levels of Albumin, B2M, and NAG in urine were associated with higher phthalate levels, indicating potential kidney damage and stress. The study also highlighted that co-exposure to multiple phthalate metabolites further increased the risk of impaired kidney function.

What are the implications of the study's findings for human health and the importance of kidney health?

The implications of the findings from the study suggest that exposure to Phthalates, specifically the metabolites of DEHP and BBzP, can lead to impaired kidney function in adults. Elevated levels of urinary Albumin, B2M, and NAG, which are indicative of kidney stress and damage, were associated with higher phthalate exposure. The long-term effects are concerning as the kidneys filter toxins and maintain the body's balance. It highlights the importance of minimizing exposure to these 'everywhere chemicals' to protect kidney health.

What practical steps can I take to reduce my exposure to Phthalates?

To reduce phthalate exposure, one should be mindful of the sources of phthalates. Phthalates are found in everyday plastics, food packaging, personal care products, and children's toys. Consider reducing the use of plastic food containers and opting for alternatives. Be cautious about personal care products containing phthalates. Reading labels and making informed choices can help minimize exposure. Being aware of the potential risks and taking proactive steps to reduce exposure is crucial to protect kidney health.