Are Phthalates Carcinogens? Are they Toxic?

Studies have shown that phthalates have affected the liver and testes of rodents. Because of this, EPA listed this as a "possible carcinogen" to humans. Even though we are not sure if phthalates are carcinogenic, it is recommended that we stay away from them for two main reasons. One, they may cause cancer and two, they may affect our bodies in other ways. Phthalates are also toxic, but their level of toxicity varies depending on which phthalate you are focusing on. For example, Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalte has a rather high level of toxicity. On the other hand, diisononyl phthalate has a lower level of toxicity.