Exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in premature neonates in a neonatal intensive care unit in Taiwan

Abstract

These data suggest that polyvinyl chloride-containing devices are the major defining factor in di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate exposure levels in neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit. We urge the use of polyvinyl chloride-free or alternative materials in medical devices, especially for endotracheal tubes, orogastric tubes, nasogastric tubes, and intravenous tubing in the neonatal intensive care unit. The health effects of high di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate exposure on premature neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit is worthy of further investigation.