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Scientists find significant intake of phthalates, BPA through skin

Researchers have highlighted that semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs) including phthalates in indoor air, dust and surfaces may be absorbed through the skin, significantly increasing human exposure to these compounds.

The scientists, based in the US and Denmark, predicted the abundance of SVOCs in the indoor environment and then used modelling techniques to estimate the human intake of these substances through the skin. They found this to be the same or larger than estimates of inhalation intake for many SVOCs, including di(n-butyl) phthalate, diethyl phthalate and nonylphenol. They also found that intake of bisphenol A through the skin may be significant following contact with contaminated surfaces.

In the article, the researchers state, "The presence of SVOCs, or their metabolites, in blood and urine is testimony to regular intake of these compounds. While diet is likely a major route of exposure for certain SVOCs, for many others the body burdens are likely to be substantially influenced by the levels of SVOCs in indoor air, in settled dust and on indoor surfaces."

The authors highlight a need for improved understanding of SVOC exposure pathways, including the dermal pathway, to inform risk assessment.

The research is published in the journal Indoor Air.



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