Serum concentrations of phthalate ester metabolites allow more direct exposure assessment

Despite their lipophilic nature, phthalates are metabolized and excreted in feces and urine within 3 d; consequently, bio-accumulation is not believed to be a problem. Studies measuring urinary monoester metabolite concentrations have revealed higher and more widespread phthalate exposure than had previously been suspected . Notably, several studies have indicated that concentrations of most urinary phthalate…