The role of lifestyle in the impact of constant phthalate exposure on overweight and obesity: A longitudinal cohort study in China

Background and ObjectivesTo explore the relationship between constant exposure to phthalates (PAEs) and overweight/obesity and the role of lifestyle in children.MethodsThis study conducted five repeated follow-up visits with 829 children and analysed data from 740 children. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between constant PAE exposure, lifestyle and overweight/obesity.ResultsThe study found that constant high levels of PAEs exposure may increase the risk of obesity in girls, and the risk is higher in girls with an unhealthy lifestyle. In the unhealthy lifestyle group of girls, compared with the constant low (CL) exposure group of PAEs, the odds ratios (ORs) for overweight/obesity and obesity in the constant high (CH) exposure group were 2.99 (1.11, 8.05) and 11.58 (1.38, 96.87), respectively. In addition, an interaction effect between constant exposure to PAEs and lifestyle was observed on obesity in girls.ConclusionThese results suggest the importance of reducing constant exposure to high levels of PAEs to reduce the risk of obesity, especially in individuals with unhealthy lifestyles. The government should strengthen the formulation of regulations and standards for PAEs while guiding parents to use fewer plastic products.