Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are both naturally-occurring and synthetic compounds that mimic, block, or interfere with hormonal function in the body’s endocrine system. According to the global medical organization Endocrine Society, of the thousands of manufactured chemicals in today’s society, approximately 1,000 are estimated to have endocrine-acting properties. In fact, mounting results from epidemiological studies, animal models, and clinical trials demonstrate a range of adverse effects associated with long-term EDC exposure, including breast development and cancer, reproductive and neurodevelopmental toxicity, obesity, and thyroid hormone disruption. New evidence increasingly indicates, additionally, that even low-dose EDC exposure may pose significant health risks. 

While sources of exposure to EDCs are diverse and vary widely globally, evidence linking cause and effect is strongest for four major categories of chemicals: pesticides, flame retardants, plasticizers, and bisphenols—industrial chemicals commonly used to line food and beverage cans. As Endocrine Society notes, “Exposure occurs at home, in the office, on the farm, in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink.” Despite the ubiquity of EDCs, the global nonprofit Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) suggests simple measures to limit exposure, such as selecting fragrance-free creams, cleaning products, and laundry detergents; limiting plastic usage; filtering tap water; opting for fresh, frozen, or dried foods (such as beans) that aren’t packaged in cans; cooking in stainless steel or cast iron; and, choosing foods with minimal pesticide residue.     —KG

—Adapted from “Invisible Pollutants and the Tipping Point for Endocrine Disruption” by Leonardo Trasande, MD. Originally published at https://www.ehn.org.