Biomonitoring of plastic additives metabolites in urine samples of new-born

Abstract

This project focuses on the analysis of plasticizers and parabens in the urine of newborns placed in incubators, with the aim to identify and evaluate the presence of potentially hazardous chemicals in these extremely vulnerable children. Given that these newborns have a developing biological system, exposure to these substances could have detrimental health effects both in the short and long term. Using advanced analytical techniques, such as high-performance liquid chromatography and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QTOF), chemicals including phthalates (PAEs), organophosphate esters (OPEs), and parabens were investigated through the QuEChERS extraction technique. The objective is to assess the presence of these compounds, which are linked to endocrine disruptors commonly found in incubator environments and medical or healthcare materials. Although no statistically significant relationship was found between the number of days in the incubator and compound concentrations, visual results suggest that most premature newborns could experience a greater accumulation of additives. The results showed differences in the concentrations of these substances across different urine samples, which might suggest that exposure varies depending on the environment and the materials used during the stay, as well as possible interventions. OPEs were the compounds with the highest concentration, followed by phthalates, while parabens, although present in lower concentrations, were detected in more urine samples. Even though no immediate health risk for newborns was observed based on the detected levels, the study emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and the consideration of strategies to reduce exposure to these compounds, particularly in neonatal intensive care and hospital settings. Additional factors, such as the type of material or characteristics of the newborns, may influence exposure levels, highlighting the need for further in-depth studies to optimize safety in hospital environments and contribute to the development of stricter regulations regarding the use of chemical additives