Endocrine Disruptors
Articles tagged with Endocrine Disruptors
The 28th European Congress of Endocrinology (ECE) hosts the largest gathering of endocrine specialists in Europe
Environmental chemicals may interfere in infants’ bone development
Research suggests that exposure to environmental pollutants in early life can negatively affect bone development. A study of 88 healthy infants found associations between certain endocrine-disrupting chemicals and lower bone mineral density, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable windows during pregnancy and after birth.
The 28th European Congress of Endocrinology (ECE) starts tomorrow
World Hormone Day 2026
The European Society of Endocrinology organizes World Hormone Day to educate the public about hormone-related health issues. Global endocrine disorders affect millions worldwide, emphasizing the need for proper hormone balance.
Plastic additives tied to millions of preterm births worldwide
A new analysis estimates that exposure to di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (DEHP) contributed to 1.97 million preterm births in 2018, equivalent to 8% of global total. The study also linked DEHP to 74,000 newborn deaths and found a significant health burden across regions with rapidly growing plastics industries.
Study uncovers a new mechanism explaining how chemicals affect sex hormones
A study by the University of Oulu reveals that PXR activation by chemicals like rifampicin can increase SHBG production, influencing testosterone levels and sex hormone availability. The discovery has significant implications for understanding the impact of everyday chemicals on hormonal systems.
Antifibrotic drug shows promise for premature ovarian insufficiency
Researchers found that an approved antifibrotic drug, finerenone, can reduce ovarian fibrosis and promote follicle growth in women with premature ovarian insufficiency. Clinical trials showed that finerenone improved follicle development and mature oocyte quality in women with POI.
Upcoming Alliance webinar highlights latest cancer treatment advances
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology will host a webinar highlighting recent clinical advances in breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and leukemia. Researchers will present key findings from ASH and SABCS meetings, impacting treatment outcomes.
How the human exposome will unlock better health and medicine:
The Global Exposome Forum is a global initiative that aims to understand the complex interplay between biological, chemical, and environmental exposures and human health. The project has partnered with national governments, scientific institutions, and large membership-led organizations to advance exposomics science.
PFAS exposure and endocrine disruption among women
Exposure to single and mixtures of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) was associated with higher odds of endocrine disruption (ED) among women. Certain PFAS compounds, particularly n-PFOS, were found to disrupt endocrine function and harm health.
Ancient genetics and modern pollutants could provide a clue to endometriosis risk
A new study suggests that genetic differences passed down from ancient human ancestors and exposure to common chemicals could explain why some women are more likely to develop endometriosis. Researchers identified six genetic variants linked to the condition, which also occur in genes sensitive to modern pollutants.
European Society of Endocrinology leads global call to raise awareness of hormone health on World Hormone Day 2026
The European Society of Endocrinology is launching a new campaign to raise awareness about the importance of hormone health. The #BecauseHormonesMatter initiative aims to improve public understanding of hormones and promote practical steps for better hormone health, following the success of last year's campaign.
High prevalence of artificial skin lightening in under 5s, Nigerian survey suggests
A Nigerian survey found that 80% of children exposed to skin bleaching products were under 2 years old, with mothers citing aesthetic preferences and social benefits as primary reasons for use. The study highlights the need for policy interventions to safeguard children's health from the risks associated with skin lightening products.
Microalgal-bacterial sludge offers sustainable solution for removing hormonal pollutants from wastewater
Researchers developed microalgal-bacterial granular sludge to efficiently degrade estrogenic compounds from wastewater. The system achieved up to 98% removal of estriol in low doses and adapted to repeated exposures.
Teens with higher blood levels of PFAS regain more weight after bariatric surgery, study finds
A new study found that adolescents with higher blood levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) prior to bariatric surgery regained more weight and had greater increases in waist circumference up to five years after surgery. Researchers believe PFAS exposure disrupts endocrine and metabolic processes, leading to weight regain.
Grandfather’s environmental chemical exposures may influence when girls get first period
A new study presents preliminary data suggesting that grandparents' exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals may impact the age when girls get their first period. The research found that certain chemicals in both mothers and fathers were linked to earlier puberty, with stronger effects seen in granddaughters.
Early-life exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals may fuel food preferences
An animal study found that early-life exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals can alter the brain's pathways controlling reward preference and eating behavior. Male rats showed a temporary preference for sugary solutions, while female rats gained weight after preferring high-fat food.
Researchers propose next steps towards fewer animal tests
The study identifies the need for more widely adopted non-animal methods to identify endocrine-disrupting substances in the EU. The researchers advocate a balanced approach that includes both developing and validating alternative methods and refining animal testing.
U.S. preschoolers exposed to broad range of potentially harmful chemicals
A national study found children aged 2-4 years in the US are exposed to a wide range of hazardous chemicals, including phthalates and pesticides, which can interfere with hormone development and immune function. The research emphasizes the need for expanded biomonitoring and stronger regulations to protect children from harmful exposures.
Exposome Moonshot launching in Washington D.C.
The Human Exposome is a global scientific effort to understand the environmental factors that underpin disease and health. The Exposome Moonshot Forum aims to chart this exposome, providing usable metrics and data points for targeted public health interventions.
Manuel Heitor to share perspectives on the future of research in Europe at launch of EndoCompass
The EndoCompass project aims to guide future studies and funding programs with a research roadmap for better hormone health in Europe. Manuel Heitor will share his perspective on the future of research in Europe, emphasizing the need for greater investment and coordination.
Phthalates may impact key genital measurement in 3-year-olds
Research finds high levels of phthalates in mothers' urine associated with shorter anogenital distances in 3-year-old boys and girls, a marker of reproductive health and hormone disruption. The study emphasizes the need for preventive measures to protect vulnerable groups from endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
ESE and ESPE joint event to call for stronger national and EU action on endocrine disruptors
The event aims to create a positive scientific and policy legacy from the Congress in Denmark, Europe, and internationally. The conference will focus on key research presented at the Joint Congress and future priorities from the EndoCompass Research Roadmap.
Plastics may trigger hormone disruption in seabirds, new study finds
A new study published in Environmental Pollution found that plastic ingested by northern fulmars can leak chemicals that interfere with the birds' hormone systems. The chemicals, such as BPA and phthalates, can impair fertility, development, and behavior, posing a significant threat to species survival.
Heart disease deaths worldwide linked to chemical widely used in plastics
A new analysis of population surveys estimates that exposure to di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) contributed to 356,238 global heart disease deaths in 2018, accounting for 13% of all global mortality. The study also found higher death risks in the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, and Pacific regions.
World Hormone Day 2025 – global endocrine community unites to raise public awareness of the small steps everyone can take towards good hormone health
The European Society of Endocrinology and the European Hormone and Metabolism Foundation launch a global campaign to raise awareness about hormone balance and its impact on chronic diseases. Small steps can make a big difference in improving hormone health.
Recently published studies find more than 1,000 additional chemicals present in or migrating from food contact materials
Recent studies have identified over 1,000 new chemicals in food contact materials, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and phthalates. The updated FCCmigex database now includes 5,294 chemicals from 1,500 scientific studies.
Candidate genes in canine hepatocellular carcinoma for molecular targeted therapy
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University assessed target genes in canine hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to develop molecular targeted therapies. The study identified potential gene targets, including PDGFB, which may improve treatment options for unresectable HCC.
Biochar reduces the risks of DDT-contaminated soil
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that biochar significantly reduces DDT uptake by earthworms in contaminated soil, halving the toxin's presence. This method could enable farming on land deemed unusable due to environmental risks.
Save the date: European Society of Endocrinology (ESE) and ESE Foundation announce inaugural World Hormone Day
The European Society of Endocrinology (ESE) and ESE Foundation will host the first-ever World Hormone Day on April 24, 2025. The campaign aims to raise public awareness of good hormone health and improve national political engagement for better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of endocrine disease.
High exposure to everyday chemicals linked to asthma risk in children
A recent study by researchers at Kumamoto University found a potential link between exposure to certain everyday chemicals during pregnancy and the development of asthma in children. The study analyzed data from over 3,500 mother-child pairs and measured 24 types of phenols in urine samples collected from pregnant women.
New PFAs testing method created at UMass Amherst
Researchers at UMass Amherst have developed a new, portable method to detect per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water. The device is small, inexpensive, and can detect levels as low as 400 ppt, making it more accessible for on-site testing.
New Co-Editor-in-Chief announced for Pest Management Science
Mithila Jugulam has been appointed Co-Editor-in-Chief of Pest Management Science, bringing expertise in weed physiology and molecular biology. She aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, while maintaining the journal's commitment to scientific rigor and editorial integrity.
Low socioeconomic status raises pregnant women’s risk of exposure to thyroid-disrupting chemicals
A new study found that pregnant women with lower socioeconomic status are exposed to higher levels of thyroid-disrupting chemicals, particularly polyaromatic hydrocarbons. This increased exposure has the potential to worsen health disparities among low-income populations.
Prenatal exposure to chemical mixtures and metabolic syndrome risk in children
A cohort study suggests that prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals is associated with adverse metabolic health in children, highlighting the need for public health implications. The findings indicate a potential link between chemical mixtures and metabolic syndrome in offspring.
Exposure to mixtures of endocrine-disrupting chemicals during pregnancy is associated with higher odds of metabolic syndrome in children
A new study found that prenatal exposure to a combination of endocrine-disrupting chemicals is associated with poorer metabolic health in childhood, increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome in adulthood. Mixtures of metals, PFAS, and organochlorine pesticides were linked to higher risks.
Preterm births linked to ‘hormone disruptor’ chemicals may cost united states billions
A new study links daily exposure to phthalates, used in plastic food containers and cosmetics, to nearly 56,600 preterm births in the US in 2018. The resulting medical costs are estimated to reach $1.6 billion to $8.1 billion over the lifetime of the children.
More than 900 chemicals, many found in consumer products and the environment, display breast-cancer causing traits
Scientists have discovered a way to predict breast cancer risk based on specific chemical traits, identifying over 900 chemicals that could contribute to the disease. These chemicals are commonly found in consumer products, food, and workplaces, and can alter hormones or damage DNA.
Microplastics come from everywhere – yes, from sex toys too
Researchers have discovered that sex toys can release microplastic particles, with anal toys and beads emitting the highest amounts. The study highlights the need for informed consumer decisions to mitigate potential health risks associated with phthalates, endocrine disruptors present in all tested sex toys.
Mobile phone use may affect semen quality
A large cross-sectional study of over 2,800 young men in Switzerland found an association between mobile phone use and lower sperm concentration. While no link was discovered to poor sperm motility or morphology, the results suggest that reduced semen quality may be linked to increased mobile phone usage.
Prenatal exposure to environmental chemicals linked to childhood growth changes
A new study reveals that prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals is linked to accelerated BMI gain in children from birth to nine years old. The study found that certain mixtures of these chemicals increase the risk of childhood obesity and its related health consequences.
Exposure to plasticizers in pregnancy associated with smaller volumetric measures in the brain and lower IQ in children
Exposure to plasticizers during pregnancy has been linked to smaller total gray matter in the brains of children at age 10. Additionally, maternal exposure to certain phthalates is associated with lower child IQ at age 14. The relationship between exposure and lower IQ is partially influenced by total gray matter volumes.
Could exposure to chemicals in plastics predispose you and your children to cardiovascular disease?
Researchers investigate how exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics may increase atherosclerosis and CVD risk, particularly in children. The study aims to establish a novel therapeutic target for chemical-induced CVD and explore gene-EDC interactions.
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals may raise risk of cognitive disorders in future generations, animal study finds
An animal study suggests that exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals like PCBs during pregnancy may lead to impaired cognitive function in future generations, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder-like behaviors. The study found that grandchildren of rats exposed to these chemicals performed worse on behavioral tasks a...
Prenatal exposure to phthalates may impact future fertility differently in males and females, animal study finds
A study found that prenatal phthalate exposure may lead to hormonal changes in females, affecting future fertility, but not males. The study suggests sex-dependent effects of phthalates on hormone levels during critical development periods.
The Endocrine community joins forces on European Hormone Day to raise awareness of vital role of hormones in preventing and treating rare and chronic diseases
The European Society of Endocrinology, ESE Foundation, and other partners mark the second European Hormone Day to promote better understanding of hormone roles and encourage change in health policy. The 'Milano Declaration' calls for stronger inclusion of endocrine health perspective in European policies.
Association between depression and physical conditions requiring hospitalization
The study found that endocrine, musculoskeletal, and vascular diseases were the most common causes of hospitalization in individuals with depression. Depression is considered a potential target for preventing both physical and mental health issues.
Reduced health risks with new epoxy resin monomer
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed a new epoxy resin monomer based on isosorbide, a substance produced from glucose, to reduce contact allergies. The new monomer is far less allergenic and not based on Bisphenol A (BPA), a known endocrine disruptor.
Health impact of chemicals in plastics is handed down two generations
A UC Riverside study found that fathers exposed to chemicals in plastics can affect the metabolic health of their offspring for two generations. Paternal DCHP exposure led to high insulin resistance and impaired insulin signaling in F1 offspring, while F2 offspring showed weaker effects.
Plastic additives contaminate the sea and selectively harm corals’ reproduction processes
New study reveals plastic additives selectively harm corals' reproductive processes, development, and settlement, affecting ecosystem balance. Researchers found alarming effects of environmental concentrations on various organisms, highlighting the urgent need for better risk assessments.
Study links prenatal phthalate exposure to reduced childhood lung function
A study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health found a strong association between prenatal phthalate exposure and reduced lung function in children. The researchers analyzed data from 641 mother-child pairs and discovered that gestational phthalate exposure was associated with decreases in forced vital capacity and forced expirat...
Chemicals in personal care products cause harmful effects in breast cancer cells from Black women
A new study found that parabens increase the growth, invasion, and expression of genes linked to cancer in breast cancer cells from Black women. This effect was more pronounced in Black cell lines compared to white cell lines.
Endocrine-disrupting chemical exposure in womb impact fear, anxiety behavior in rats
Research finds prenatal exposure to BPA and DEHP may contribute to mood disorders later in life by altering brain chemistry. Adult offspring exposed to these chemicals displayed impaired fear responses and altered behavioral patterns, highlighting the importance of avoiding exposures during pregnancy.
Hybrid ENDO 2022 press conferences to highlight emerging diabetes, obesity, reproductive research
The Endocrine Society's ENDO 2022 news conferences will showcase the latest research on diabetes, obesity, thyroid health, and reproductive conditions. Key findings include the impact of chemicals in hair care products on breast cancer cells and the effects of childhood obesity on male infertility.
Conservationists find high DDT and PCB contamination risk for critically endangered California coastal condors
A new study finds that California coastal condors are at increased risk of reproductive impairment due to consuming dead marine mammals contaminated with banned chemicals like DDT and PCBs. Baja California, Mexico, presents a reduced risk compared to the California coast.
Effectively removing emerging contaminants in wastewater treatment plants
Researchers have identified efficient technologies to remove endocrine disruptors from wastewater, including ozonation and adsorption with activated carbon. These methods can be added to existing treatment plants, improving performance without major changes.
Mother and child vulnerable to endocrine disruptor exposure
A Canadian research team found that pregnant women and their unborn babies are sensitive to environmental contaminants like endocrine disruptors. The study highlighted the role of the placenta in regulating maternal physiology and fetal development, and linked early exposure to certain EDs with breast cancer and prostate cancer risk.
Measuring endocrine disruptors in wastewater
A team of researchers from INRS has developed a new tool to measure the effects of endocrine disruptors in wastewater. Using human cell lines, they can detect the presence of these contaminants and predict their harmful effects without resorting to animal testing.
CHOP and Penn Medicine to lead Philadelphia Regional Center for Children's Environmental Health
The Philadelphia Regional Center for Children's Environmental Health aims to identify and protect vulnerable communities from environmental exposures. The center will focus on four primary research areas: asthma prevention, lead exposure, air pollution, and endocrine disrupting chemicals.