What Are the Toxicological Concerns with Catheters?
One of the primary concerns with catheters relates to the materials used in their construction. Many catheters are made from plastics and polymers such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene, and polyurethane. These materials can sometimes leach harmful chemicals, such as phthalates or bisphenol A (BPA), into the body, leading to potential toxic effects. There is also the risk of infection, as catheters can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream or urinary tract.
