Endocrine disruptors

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with endocrine (or hormone) systems at certain doses. These disruptions can cause cancer, birth defects, and other developmental disorders. Any system in the body controlled by hormones can be derailed by hormone disruptors. Specifically, endocrine disruptors may be associated with the development of learning disabilities, severe attention deficit, cognitive and brain development problems; deformations of the body (including limbs); and they may also affect the immune system.

Overview

The endocrine system is a network of glands and organs that produce, store, and secrete hormones. Hormones are natural chemicals that guide the development, growth, reproduction, and behavior of animals, including humans. Endocrine disruptors mimic or partly mimic naturally occurring hormones in the body like estrogens, androgens, and thyroid hormones, potentially producing overstimulation. They can also block the effects of hormones or interfere with the way natural hormones are made or controlled. The disruption of the endocrine system can occur in various ways. Some chemicals mimic a natural hormone, fooling the body into over-responding to the stimulus (e.g., to produce more estrogen than is needed) or responding at inappropriate times. Other endocrine disruptors block the effects of a hormone from certain receptors (e.g., anti-androgens block the effect of testosterone, reducing male sex characteristics).

Sources and Exposure

Common sources of endocrine disruptors include pharmaceuticals, DDT, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and other chemicals that are present in the environment or are released by industries. People can be exposed to these chemicals through a variety of routes, including ingestion of food and water; inhalation of gases, dusts, and particulates; and skin contact.

Health Effects

Exposure to endocrine disruptors can occur in the womb, and because the endocrine system plays a critical role in human development, infants and children are particularly susceptible to endocrine disruptor effects. Potential health effects include reduced fertility in men and women, increased incidence of endometriosis and some cancers, developmental delays in children, cognitive and behavioral problems, and changes in immune function.

Regulation and Prevention

Efforts to reduce human exposure to endocrine disruptors involve banning or restricting their use, reducing emissions from industrial sources, and minimizing exposure in the workplace and home. Regulatory agencies in various countries have established guidelines and legislation aimed at controlling the release of these chemicals into the environment.

Research

Ongoing research aims to better understand the mechanisms by which endocrine disruptors affect the endocrine system and to identify their effects on human health and wildlife. This research is critical for developing strategies to minimize risks associated with exposure to these chemicals.

See Also

• Hormone
• Environmental health
• Toxicology
• Reproductive health