A study published in the Journal of eBioMedicine has found a correlation between synthetic chemicals present in household plastics, such as food storage containers, and heart disease. According to the study, these chemicals, called phthalates, were responsible for over 350,000 deaths globally in 2018.  The study found that phthalates contributed to 13% of all cardiovascular deaths globally in adults aged between 55 and 64.  Researchers estimated that 75% of these deaths occurred in Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific regions.  Phthalates are chemicals added to plastics to increase flexibility and are often present in shampoos and perfumes to retain scent. These endocrine disruptors have been linked to various health issues, including fertility issues and obesity. Researchers have indicated that these chemicals contribute to inflammation in the coronary artery, aggravating existing diseases, which can often lead to death. Researchers discovered the chemicals' link to cardiovascular death by drawing on worldwide surveys that evaluated the exposure of a type of phthalate called ‘food pack' through urine samples.  Such a revelation has pushed scientists to advocate for greater regulation and transparency regarding such chemical additives in common household plastics and processed foods.  In a majority of countries worldwide, companies using phthalates are not obligated to reveal the chemical addition, further exacerbating the issue.