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A new study presented at ENDO 2026 has found that male rats exposed to the common plastic chemical di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) during early development showed higher levels of anxiety as adults. Researchers observed lasting behavioural changes even after exposure had ended, suggesting that endocrine-disrupting chemicals may affect brain development in the long term. While the study was conducted in animals, scientists say the findings raise important questions about how widespread exposure to DEHP, found in products such as toys, medical devices and shower curtains, could impact human health.