High concentrations of phthalates like that found in some medications may be linked to an increase in childhood cancer risk, a first-of-its-kind study from the University of Vermont Cancer Center suggests. Phthalates, also known as the “everywhere chemical,” are used as inactive ingredients in some medications, but are more commonly found in several types of chemical in plastics that researchers are investigating for any potential disruptions to human hormones and other possible health problems. The chemical make plastics like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) more flexible and are used in vinyl flooring, adhesives, detergents, lubricating oils, and automotive plastics. People can be exposed to low concentrations by eating and drinking foods and beverages that have been in contact with plastic containers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or higher concentrations through medications formulated with phthalates. The study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute on Feb. 18, …