Common Plastic Chemical Linked To ADHD

November 20, 2009 6:51 a.m. EST

Miami, FL (AHN) - A common chemical found in many plastic products has been linked to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children, according to new research from South Korea.

Measuring urine samples, the researchers found what they call a significant association between the amount of phthalate exposure and symptoms of ADHD.

Previous studies have linked the chemical, found in many toys, cleaning materials and personal care items, to hormone disruptions, birth defects, asthma and reproductive problems.

The scientists say the study does not prove phthalates cause ADHD, but the findings do provide reason for more research.

The study is published in the journal, Biology Psychiatry.