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Top news on endocrine-disrupting chemicals in 2020: Exposure risks, new report and more
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In 2020, researchers and organizations from around the globe voiced caution about the prevalence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, or EDCs, and the risks they pose to humans.
A report released in December by the Endocrine Society and International Pollutants Elimination Network projected a large increase in plastic and EDC production over the next 30 years. Other research linked EDC exposure to increased risks for obesity, diabetes, infertility and more.
Here are some of Healio’s top stories on EDCs from 2020.
Report calls for global action to reduce EDC exposure from plastics
A new report from the Endocrine Society and International Pollutants Elimination Network identified more than 140 endocrine-disrupting chemicals, or EDCs, and their negative effects on human health. Researchers said intervention was needed from governments, businesses and consumers to cut down on EDC exposure.
Chemicals in cosmetics increase obesity risk for children exposed in utero
Children may be more likely to develop overweight or obesity if their mothers are exposed to high levels of paraben, a chemical found in cosmetics, during pregnancy.
Phthalates may contribute to sleep disruption in menopause
A study published in Menopause revealed phthalate exposure may negatively affect sleep quality for midlife women.
High BPA exposure may increase all-cause mortality
Exposure to the endocrine-disrupting chemical bisphenol A was significantly and positively associated with all-cause mortality in U.S. adults, according to an analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data.
Growing evidence shows endocrine-disrupting chemicals drive obesity, infertility, diabetes
In a series paper published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, researchers said endocrine-disrupting chemicals can negatively affect a wide range of systems throughout the human body and have consequences at every life stage.
Endocrine-disrupting chemical exposure during pregnancy influences obesity across two generations
Exposure to a class of endocrine-disrupting chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, during pregnancy can influence obesity in granddaughters two generations later.
New international group advocates for endocrine-disrupting chemical research, legislation
In December, researchers announced The Intersectoral Centre for Endocrine Disruptors Analysis, a new center devoted to the analysis of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. It was formed to bring together researchers across disciplines to better collaborate and advocate for policies and legislation benefiting human and environmental health.
Phthalates from plastics, personal care products influence testosterone levels among men
Urinary biomarkers that detect the presence of phthalates were associated with testosterone concentrations among a representative sample of U.S. men. The directions of the associations differed by age.
European strategy aims to rein in EDC exposures
In October, the European Commission unveiled its new strategy for sustainability, designed to protect the public from exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and their health effects.