NCIt definition : A family of benzene derivatives that are formed by esterification of phthalic acid.
Phthalates are added to increase the flexibility and softness of commercial plastics,
which are incorporated into a wide variety of consumer goods. Ingested phthalates
may exhibit estrogenic or antiandrogenic effects or they may act as endocrine disruptors.
Exposure to phthalate may increase the risk of certain cancers.;