Lab Med Online.  2023 Jul;13(3):129-140. 10.47429/lmo.2023.13.3.129.

ffects of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals on Human Health

• Lee JH
• Cho SE
• CMSRC(otKSoCC(

• KMID: 2552737
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.47429/lmo.2023.13.3.129

Abstract

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances that interfere with normal endocrine physiology by disrupting the synthesis, metabolism, and cellular function of natural hormones. Humans are constantly exposed to EDCs from various sources, such as plant-derived substances, industrial chemicals, household and personal hygiene products, medical products, and pharmaceuticals which they regularly encounter in their surrounding environments. Common EDCs include bisphenol A, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), diethylstilbestrol, dioxins, genistein, perfluoroalkyl compounds, phthalates, and polychlorinated biphenyls. In this review, we analyzed the effects of EDCs on human reproductive organs, focusing on reproductive abnormalities and fertility decline. Additionally, we summarized the oncogenic effects of EDCs, focusing on testicular, breast, and prostate cancers. We also investigated the impact of EDCs on different organs, including conditions such as obesity and diabetes, in addition to cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, and thyroid diseases.

Keyword

Endocrine disruptors; Endocrine system; Environmental exposure

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