Can phthalate exposure at birth raise the risk of testicular cancer later?

What's actually in it

Phthalates are plasticizer chemicals found in soft vinyl (PVC), food packaging, fragranced products, and medical tubing. Newborns are exposed through their mother's blood during pregnancy and through hospital equipment after birth. These chemicals mimic hormones and can interfere with reproductive development.

What the research says

A 2026 study in JNCI Cancer Spectr measured phthalate levels in blood samples collected at birth and followed the individuals for years. The researchers found that babies born with higher phthalate levels had a greater risk of developing testicular cancer as adolescents or young adults.

Testicular cancer rates have been rising in young men for decades. The study suggests that chemical exposure in the womb and around birth may set the stage for cancer that shows up 15 to 25 years later. Phthalates can disrupt the hormones that guide normal development of the testicles.

To reduce phthalate exposure for newborns, ask hospitals about phthalate-free medical equipment. At home, avoid fragranced baby products, soft PVC toys, and vinyl changing pads.