Phthalate chemical in IV feeding tubes linked to preemie liver problems, German study

A chemical used in many plastic products and already under scrutiny for potential health risks is suspected of raising the risk of liver problems in premature babies, according to a new study.

The small study in a German hospital suggests a chemical known as a phthalate, used in some intravenous feeding bags and tubing, may raise preemies' chances for liver damage.

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Serious liver problems involving reduced flow of bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, developed in 50 percent of the infants fed with the tubes containing DEHP versus just 13 percent of the other infants.

The researchers took into account other factors that might contribute to liver problems, and the two groups were mostly similar. However, the chemical group was intravenously fed for an average of 26 days, four more days than the other infants.