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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.
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