Soon, we will be reintroducing legislation requiring licensed medical facilities in Pennsylvania that utilize IV bags and certain other medical devices with Diethylhexyl Phthalate (DEHP) to formally notify patients of their use and the documented risks posed by this toxic additive. The bill will also begin to phase out DEHP IV-bags and medical devices over time, starting with high-risk patients (NICUs, pediatrics, and cancer patients). 
 
DEHP belongs to a family of chemicals added to certain plastic products to increase their flexibility and reduce brittleness. The additives leach to varying degrees and research suggests exposure can interfere with testosterone production and disrupt normal male reproductive development. Studies have also found that DEHP may contribute to increased drug resistance in the treatment of breast cancer patients, interfering with breast cancer treatment and increasing the likelihood of relapse.
 
In 2006, the American Medical Association adopted its policy urging healthcare providers to avoid using DEHP in medical devices. In 2008, Congress prohibited the manufacture, sale, or distribution of children’s toys and childcare articles that contain DEHP.
 
The additives are unnecessary in IV bags as cost-effective and safe alternatives are available from multiple suppliers that do not contain DEHP.  Please join us in cosponsoring this legislation that will better protect patients from these harmful chemicals.