phthalates are known endocrine disruptors. But for the first time, a study has shown that these compounds, commonly found in lubricants, pesticides, paints and cosmetics, can lead to abdominal obesity and insulin resistance in adult men.

Researchers from the department of community and preventive medicine of the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, usa, have contended that phthalates could have a direct link to obesity. Their study was published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives (online, March 14, 2007).

Earlier studies on human beings have shown that phthalates are associated with low testosterone levels, which in turn is linked to increased prevalence of obesity, insulin resistance and diabetes.

The group analysed urine, blood samples and other data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (nhanes). These samples are collected regularly by the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for research. Data on phthalate exposures, obesity and waist size was available for a total of 1,451 adult men. Of them, 651 samples had data on fasting glucose and insulin levels