Le Di-2-Ethylhexyl Phtalate (DEHP) dans les articles de puéricultures

Abstract

Introduction. Various materials are used in the manufacture of childcare articles, with plastic being the most commonly used. A childcare article may contain several substances that pose a toxic risk to children, including phthalates. The objective of our study was to assess parents’ knowledge about the risks associated with phthalates in childcare products. Materials and Methods. This was a descriptive, cross-sectional, non-experimental epidemiological study with an analytical aim. The study was conducted over a period of one and a half months, from February 15 to March 31, 2025, using a face-to-face questionnaire administered to parents. Results and Discussion. A total of 401 parents were included in our study. The majority of them have one or two children. Hygiene products, as well as bottle warmers and sterilizers, are among the most frequently purchased childcare items. The label 'phthalate-free' remains largely unknown to most respondents. Safety is the main purchasing criterion for 55.61% of the parents surveyed. Approximately 75% reported buying plastic items intended for their children. However, only 25% of parents stated that they were aware of phthalates, and nearly 75% were unaware of the potential health risks associated with exposure to these chemical compounds. Conclusion. Given the significant harmful effects of these substances on children's health, it is essential to conduct toxicological analyses to determine the phthalate content in childcare articles and to evaluate their potential risks. Parental awareness of the risks associated with DEHP is essential due to its presence in childrelated products. As a frontline healthcare professional, the pharmacist plays a key role in guiding families toward safer alternatives, thereby contributing to the establishment of a preventive culture for protecting child health.