Legislation prohibits DEHP, linked to breast, liver, lung, and testicular cancer, from intravenous bags and tubing used in Massachusetts hospitals
BOSTON – State Representative Richard M. Haggerty (D-Woburn) recently joined his colleagues in both the House and Senate to ban the use of a toxic chemical commonly added to plastic intravenous (IV) bags and linked to cancer cases in Massachusetts
“It’s important that when people seek medical help, they should not have to worry that the equipment being used on them poses a health risk,” said Representative Haggerty. “This bill removes DEHP, a chemical linked to cancer, from IV bags and tubing and switches to safer options that are already being used. It is a simple, common-sense reform that makes our hospitals safer for patients across Massachusetts.”
The legislation S.3106, An Act relative to toxic-free medical devices, would prohibit the manufacture or sale of IV containers and tubing made with intentionally added DEHP. DEHP, Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, has been linked to breast, liver, lung, and testicular cancer, according to Breast Cancer Prevention Partners.
The bill would phase out the use of DEHP, a toxic chemical, in IV bags and tubing in Massachusetts. Many IV bags currently contain DEHP, which is added to improve the plastic’s flexibility but can pose serious health dangers to patients.
Governor Maura Healey has signed the bill into law.
