gov, 2015). .
Phthalates are used in a wide range of common products, and are released into the environment. There is no covalent bond between the phthalates and plastics; rather, they are entangled within the plastic as a result of the manufacturing process used to make PVC articles (Epa.gov, 2007). They can be removed by exposure to heat or with organic solvents. However, people are exposed to phthalates, and most Americans tested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have metabolites of multiple phthalates in their urine. Phthalate exposure may be through direct use or by indirect means through leaching and general environmental contamination (AMC, 2015). Diet is believed to be the main source of phthalates in the general population. Fatty foods such as milk, butter, and meats are a major source. In studies of rodents exposed to certain phthalates, high doses have been shown to change hormone levels and cause birth defects (Khan, 2014). You can be exposed to low levels of phthalates through air, water, or food. You can be exposed to phthalates if you use cosmetics, personal care products, cleaning products, or other plastic and vinyl products that contain them. Human health effects from exposure to low levels of phthalates are unknown. Some types of phthalates have affected the reproductive system of laboratory animals. More research is needed to assess the human health effects of exposure to phthalates (Toxtown.nlm.nih.gov, 2015).
An estuary is a coastal area where fresh water rivers and streams mix with salt water from the ocean in bays, lagoons and canals (Laureano, 2011). Estuaries receive water inflow that is high in nutrients from both marine and freshwater sources, making them among the most productive natural habitats on earth. As nearly 60% of mankind lives in the immediate vicinity of estuaries, they provide an important interface for assessing the impact of human activities on the biosphere.