Children more likely to have attention, behavioral problems when exposed to phthalates in womb, New York study says

Children more likely to have attention, behavioral problems when exposed to phthalates in womb, New York study says
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/news/phthalates-and-attention-deficits

"Children exposed in the womb to chemicals in cosmetics and fragrances are more likely to develop behavioral problems commonly found in children with attention deficit disorders, according to a study of New York City school-age children published Thursday. Scientists said the findings uncovered a new problem that could be related to phthalates - effects on a child's developing brain. "More phthalates equaled more behavioral problems," said Stephanie Engel, an associate professor of preventive medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. "For every increase of exposure, we saw an increase in frequency and severity of the symptoms," including attention problems, poor conduct and aggression. The connection was only detected for the types of phthalates used in perfumes, shampoos and other personal care products, not the ones found in vinyl toys and other soft plastics."