DATA INFO

The Impact of Endocrine Disruptors on Our Health

By Hira Syed

Awareness & Discovery

Scientific studies have linked abnormal mutations in marine creatures, like intersex, to exposure to chemical compounds that mimic or imitate natural hormones in the body. These chemicals are called endocrine disrupters. Endocrine disrupters are very, very potent chemicals at infinitesimally small quantification. They interrupt the normal way in which the body controls everything from growth and development to thyroid function to reproductive function to estrogen levels,testosterone levels.

of Endocrine disruptors

Public Awareness and Advocacy:

Emergence in Scientific Research:

Regulatory Responses:

Increasing public awareness, fueled by documentaries like "Poisoned Waters," led to calls for stricter regulations and consumer demand for safer products. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) played a crucial role in advocating for policies to mitigate endocrine disruptor exposure.

Pre-Recognition Phase:

Early scientific studies in the late 20th century started uncovering abnormalities in wildlife linked to endocrine disruptors. Researchers observed fish kills, intersex fish, and amphibian abnormalities, prompting concerns about broader ecological impacts. In the 1990s, the scientific community recognized endocrine disruptors as a significant environmental and health concern. Research pointed to the presence of these disruptors in everyday items, such as cleaning agents, plastics, and personal care products.

The 2000s saw initial regulatory responses, with organizations like the EPA initiating screening programs to identify and regulate endocrine disruptors. Ongoing challenges included the identification of new disruptors, the establishment of safety standards, and the development of effective regulatory measures.

The issue continues to evolve, with ongoing research identifying new endocrine disruptors and their potential health effects.Regulatory efforts are adapting to address emerging challenges and protect both the environment and public health.

Before awareness grew, endocrine disruptors operated unnoticed in various products and industries.

Lack of regulations allowed these compounds to permeate the environment without comprehensive scrutiny.

Endocrine Disruptors found in the world

possible solutions or actions to take

References/ Sources:

The EPA Endocrine Disruptor Screening Program is a regulatory initiative aimed at identifying and assessing the impact of endocrine disruptors on human health and the environment. 1. Screening and Testing. 2. Regulatory Action: Based on screening results, the EPA may take regulatory actions to manage and control the use of specific endocrine-disrupting chemicals. This can involve setting exposure limits, restrictions, or bans on the production and use of certain substances. 3. Research and Monitoring. 4. Collaboration: Collaboration with other agencies, industries, and stakeholders is crucial to address the complexity of the issue effectively. Everyday Solutions (EWG Guide to Going Green): 1. Choose Safer Products 2. Dietary Changes 3. Reduce Plastic Usage 4. Educate and Advocate

Countries that monitor EDCs in the drinking water supply. Global EDC monitoring revealed multiclass EDCs in the treated drinking water supply, particularly in tap water, in a certain range. Looking at the map a maximum concentration (28,000.0 ng/L) was observed in drinking water directly from the wells in India.

Indications of estrogenic-endocrine disruption are widespread within the Chesapeake Bay watershed, with intersex or plasma vitellogenin being observed in all five major river systems including the Susquehanna, Potomac, Patuxent, James, and Rappahannock Rivers. Estrogenic exposure indicators were associated with urban and agricultural land-use characteristics.

Major conflict

The conflict stems from concerns about the widespread presence of these disruptors in daily life, their impact on human health, and the challenges associated with regulating and mitigating their effects.

A flowchart describing different types of endocrine disruptors and the associated endocrine disorders.

Indications of estrogenic-endocrine disruption

References/ Sources:

Frontline. (2009). Poisoned Waters. PBS. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/poisonedwaters/view/ Frontline. (2009). Endocrine Disruptors: Today's canary in the coal mine? PBS. https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/poisonedwaters/themes/endocrine.html