Our Stolen Future

Our Stolen Future is a book by Theo Colborn, Dianne Dumanoski, and John Peterson Myers that was published in 1996. The book explores the impact of endocrine disruptors on human health and the environment. It is often compared to Rachel Carson's seminal work, Silent Spring, for its role in raising public awareness about environmental issues.

Overview

The book discusses how synthetic chemicals, which can interfere with the endocrine system, are affecting the development and reproduction of both humans and wildlife. These chemicals, often referred to as endocrine disruptors, can mimic or block hormones and disrupt the body's normal functions. The authors argue that these disruptions can lead to a variety of health problems, including cancer, birth defects, and other developmental disorders.

Key Concepts

• Endocrine Disruptors: Chemicals that can interfere with the endocrine (or hormone) system. These disruptions can cause cancerous tumors, birth defects, and other developmental disorders.
• Bioaccumulation: The process by which certain toxic substances (such as pesticides or heavy metals) accumulate and magnify in the tissues of living organisms.
• Hormone Mimics: Synthetic chemicals that imitate natural hormones and can trigger similar biological responses, potentially leading to adverse health effects.

Impact and Reception

Our Stolen Future has been influential in the field of environmental science and public health. It has led to increased research into the effects of endocrine disruptors and has influenced policy and regulatory decisions. The book has been praised for its thorough research and compelling narrative, although it has also faced criticism from some industry groups.

Authors

• Theo Colborn: An environmental health analyst known for her research on endocrine disruptors.
• Dianne Dumanoski: An environmental journalist who has written extensively on environmental issues.
• John Peterson Myers: A biologist and environmentalist who has focused on the impact of chemicals on human health.

See Also

• Silent Spring
• Endocrine disruptor
• Environmental health
• Public health
• Bioaccumulation