Statement

New Study Finds No Link Between Phthalate Exposure and Sperm Damage in Humans

ARLINGTON, VA (October 23, 2009) — In one of the most thorough studies of its type yet conducted, a German research team has found no evidence that exposure to di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) affects the health of human sperm cells. Earlier, smaller studies have yielded conflicting results: one such test (Duty et al, 2003) received wide attention when it reported finding a statistical link between phthalate levels in males and sperm damage.  Other studies (Jonsson et al, 2005; Hauser et al, 2006) found no such link.  This new study adds to the weight of evidence that there is no such effect in humans.

The team tested the motility, physical condition, and total numbers of sperm of 349 fertility clinic patients, and compared the results with the men’s levels of primary and secondary DEHP metabolites which are the biologically active breakdown products of the full molecule.  Earlier, smaller studies yielded conflicting results, but this new study – because of its size and scope – strengthens the evidence that DEHP has no such effect in humans.

Steve Risotto, Senior Director of the Phthalate Esters Panel of the American Chemistry Council, issued the following statement:

 “The larger sample size of this study, adds to greater precision, and gives the findings – that there is no link between DEHP metabolite levels and the health  of the men’s sperm – more credence.  Additionally, by testing for both primary and secondary DEHP metabolites, the researchers were able to better assess individual exposure to the phthalate.  While no one study is definitive, this more thorough study adds to the weight of scientific evidence that DEHP does not affect the health of human sperm cells.”

Learn more about phthalates.