Exposure to common household chemical during pregnancy ups child’s eczema risk

In a June, 2012 early online edition of the journal Environmental Health Perspective, experts looked at a common household chemical, butylbenzyl phthalate or BBzP, in the urine of pregnancy women and the subsequent risk of eczema in their children.¹ Comparing those with the highest to the lowest levels, children of women with higher levels of BBzP in their urine were 52% more likely to develop eczema.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, causes an inflamed, itchy, scaly rash, and dry red skin in early infancy. It is associated with other allergic conditions like asthma, food allergy, and allergic skin conditions. Eczema often disappears later in life.

Butylbenzyl phthalate (BBzP) is a chemical typically found in vinyl flooring, artificial leather, and other household materials. Exposure is thought to occur as the chemical is slowly released into the air and absorbed through the lungs. Previously, researchers had linked BBzP in dust to childhood eczema suggesting that childhood exposure caused the eczema. This study suggests that prenatal exposure may be to blame. Either way, expectant moms should consider staying out of rooms with vinyl floors and getting rid of leather furniture.