A recent article from CNN reports that prenatal exposure to phthalates can cause language delays in children.
What are phthalates? They are chemicals found in personal care products, food processing/packaging and many household items. Items including: toys, vinyl flooring, wall covering, nail polish and perfumes according to the US FDA. According to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics and reported by CNN, they could be linked to delayed language development.
The research conducted in both the United Sates and Sweden looked at levels of phthalates in pregnant women in relation to language development in their children. The tem found that women with high exposure were twice as likely to have a child with language development delay. Researchers controlled for other factors such as age of the mother and child, educational level of mother and child etc. finding results from both populations very consistent.
For anyone trying to avoid phthalates try buying personal care products labeled "phthalate-free", eating a healthy diet and avoiding foods that have been overly processed and packaged. Also, phthalates in the home can become a part of general household dust so have a good dust control protocol or forego the vinyl.