Endocrine disruptors are natural or man-made chemicals that may mimic or interfere with how the body’s hormones, which are part of the endocrine system, work. The endocrine system is a network of glands and organs that produce, store, and secrete hormones. These chemicals are linked to many health problems in both wildlife and people. Since endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) come from many different sources, people are exposed in several ways, including the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink. EDCs can also enter the body through the skin.
Endocrine disruptors can disrupt many different hormones, which is why they have been linked to numerous adverse human health outcomes, including:
- Alterations in sperm quality and fertility
- Abnormalities in sex organs
- Endometriosis
- Early puberty
- Altered nervous system function
- Immune function
- Certain cancers
- Respiratory and cardiovascular problems
- Metabolic issues
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Growth
- Neurological and learning disabilities
According to the Endocrine Society, there are nearly 85,000 human-made chemicals worldwide, and 1,000 or more of those could be endocrine disruptors based on their unique properties. The following chemicals are among the most common and well-studied:
- Atrazine
- Bisphenol A (BPA)
- Dioxins
- Perchlorate
- Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
- Phthalates
- Phytoestrogens
- Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE)
- Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
- Triclosan
High EDC exposures during fetal development and childhood can have long-lasting health effects since there are periods where hormones regulate the formation and maturation of organs. Early-life exposures have been linked to developmental abnormalities and may increase the risk for various diseases later in life.
Many EDCs have been found to cross the placenta and become concentrated in the fetus’ circulatory system. Other EDCs can be transferred from mother to infant through breast milk.
Although evidence linking EDCs to adverse health outcomes grows, the cause-and-effect relationship is not yet fully understood. Generally, chronic high exposure poses the highest risk, however, a developing fetus or infant is more vulnerable to lower exposures.
Additionally, a person’s genetic predisposition to specific health conditions and additional environmental risk factors can modify how a person is affected by EDCs.
For more information about Jamaica Hospital’s endocrinology service, or to make an appointment, please call 718-206-7001.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.