Topic: The Occurrence, Exposure, and Health Challenges of Flame Retardants and Plasticiser

Environmental contaminants have been surrounding us for many years. Specifically, Bisphenol A and phthalates, also known as plasticizers, have been widely used in the plastics industry for many years. On the other hand, flame retardants have been applied to a wide range of industrial and consumer materials with the aim of reducing their flammability. Given their wide range of applications, their manufacture and use has increased over the years, making them ubiquitous in the environment. Due to the high exposure to these compounds as well as their physicochemical and endocrine-disrupting properties, they can have harmful effects on the environment and humans, particularly in susceptible populations, such as pregnant women and children.

With this special issue, we intend to address the latest research regarding environmental contamination with flame retardants and plasticizers and the consequent challenges for One Health. This encompasses the production and occurrence of these compounds, as well as exposure assessment, metabolism and their consequences for human health. We welcome all types of studies on this matter, experimental and epidemiological studies, up-to-date reviews, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, as well as commentaries.

Plasticizers, flame retardants, health impacts, exposure assessment, One Health

15 Jul 2025