From the 1940s to the 1970s, a drug called Diethyl stilbesterol (DES) was used to treat pregnant women with high-risk pregnancies, with the belief that it prevented miscarriages. But in 1972, exposure to DES during pregnancy was linked to a rare form of vaginal cancer in daughters whose mother received DES! It was also demonstrated that numerous non-cancerous changes occurred in the reproductive systems of both sons and daughters of mothers who had consumed the drug during their pregnancy.  DES is one of the many Endocrine Disruptors (EDs) that exist today. 

Endocrine Disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the endocrine or the hormonal system of our body. Hormones are substances which are produced in small quantities within the body and regulate the growth, reproduction, immunity and metabolism of the body.  Exposure to these “endocrine disrupting chemicals” (EDC’s) can affect the functioning of our body by altering the normal hormonal responses and also have repercussions on the future generations to come. 

Where are these disruptors found?

A wide range of chemicals in the environment, man-made chemicals such as pesticides, metals, pharmaceuticals, every day products including plastic bottles, metal food cans, detergents, flame retardants, food, toys, cosmetics, etc. act as sources of endocrine disruptors for every single human being.

We can be exposed to them through the food we eat and the water we drink, through the dust we inhale and the chemicals we absorb through the skin. These endocrine disruptors can also be passed from a mother to her baby during pregnancy and through breastfeeding as well. The most vulnerable to these disruptors are the babies within pregnant women and children, as exposure to these may manifest even after years of exposure!

There are a number of commonly known disruptors. Alkylphenols are present in fuel, fragrances and detergents. Bisphenol A (BPA) is found in plastic bottles, plastic food containers, and the linings of metal containers of food and infant formula. Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) is commonly used as a pesticide and mosquito repellent, while Phthalates are present in soft toys, medical equipment, cosmetics and air fresheners.

Some EDC’s like DDT and Phthalates have also been associated with increased prevalence of early puberty in girls, as early as at the age of 8 years. Consumption of Soy milk formulas has also been associated with early puberty.

Sex hormones like estrogen and androgen are critical for reproduction. EDCs block the connection between the hormones and their target organs and adversely affect fertility potential. The reproductive disorders that may be related to EDC’S include chromosomal abnormalities, polycystic ovary syndrome, ovarian failure, and changes in the menstrual cycle.

More than 150 research studies have linked endocrine-disrupting chemicals to a long list of health problems. Besides infertility they are linked to heart disease, obesity, breast and prostate cancer and diabetes.

Avoiding these chemicals is difficult, but not impossible. It is best to avoid plastics that contain phthalates and avoid clear plastic containers. Cloudy containers do not contain Bisphenol A. It is better to use glass containers instead of plastic and to use glass or steel containers to heat food. Do not use plastic containers to heat food and throw them if they are scratched or cracked.

There is an urgent need to decrease our exposure to these products. It is a matter of great concern that the endocrine disrupting potential of the majority of chemicals in production are common consumer products and we have no system to regulate their use!

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