Endocrine Society released scientific statement on endocrine-disrupting chemicals

The Endocrine Society's 91st Annual Meeting

The Endocrine Society has issued a scientific statement citing the adverse effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals and offers information and recommendations intended to educate and increase awareness.

According to the scientific statement, endocrine-disrupting chemicals include, “…substances in our environment, food and consumer products that interfere with hormone biosynthesis, metabolism or action resulting in a deviation from normal homeostatic control or reproduction.”

One such chemical mentioned in the statement is bisphenol A, widely used in plastic baby bottles and on metal cans. More than 90% of Americans have been exposed to bisphenol A, according to information in the statement.

“From chemicals in pesticides, food, plastic bottles, lipstick and many other items that we use on a daily basis, the concern is real,” Robert M. Carey, MD, president of The Endocrine Society and professor of medicine at the University of Virginia, said during a press conference at The Endocrine

Dangers of endocrine-disrupting chemicals

The statement includes evidence of the effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on male and female reproduction, thyroid, metabolism and obesity, among other mechanisms.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals interfere with hormone biosynthesis, metabolism and action resulting in adverse developmental, reproductive, neurological and immune effects in humans and wildlife.

In addition to this statement, several studies on endocrine-disrupting chemicals, particularly bisphenol A, were reported at The Endocrine Society’s 91st Annual Meeting. One study linked bisphenol A exposure in utero to epigenetic changes and altered developmental program. In another study, researchers reported low doses of bisphenol A promote arrythmogenesis and altered calcium handling in the heart.

Recommendations and education

Experts included evidence-based content in the statement, but also areas of basic and clinical knowledge gaps that require additional research, according to Carey. The statement was designed to educate basic and clinical scientists and clinicians about the scientific basis of the disease and its prevention and management.

Additionally, the statement includes several recommendations surrounding endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as enhancing research and advocating involvement of stakeholders in communicating and implementing changes in public policy and awareness.

For more information on the scientific statement, visit The Endocrine Society website. – by Christen Haigh