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The endocrine disruptors

Endocrine disruptors are chemical substances found in many everyday products. They can have harmful effects on our health by interfering with our hormonal system. Understanding what they are, where they come from, and how to avoid them is crucial for our well-being.

 

What is an endocrine disruptor?

An endocrine disruptor is an exogenous substance or mixture that alters one or more functions of the endocrine system. This alteration can lead to adverse health effects on an organism, its offspring, or its (sub)populations. This definition was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2002.

The endocrine system is composed of several glands, such as the pituitary gland, thyroid, pancreas, ovaries, and testes. These glands secrete hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and insulin. Released into the bloodstream, these hormones play a crucial role in various essential functions of the body, such as reproduction, fetal and child development, and the regulation of blood sugar and blood pressure.

Endocrine disruptors interfere with these hormones by mimicking their action, blocking their reception, or altering their production and degradation.

 

Sources of exposure to endocrine disruptors

Endocrine disruptors are present in many products of our daily life:

  • Plastics: phthalates, Bisphenol A
  • Agro-food industry: pesticides, antioxidants, preservatives
  • Retail: preservative additives, receipts
  • Cosmetics: parabens, antimicrobial and antifungal preservatives
  • Plant protection: organochlorine compounds
  • Cleaning: detergents
  • Textiles and furniture: flame retardants
  • Pharmacy and health: biocides and excipients

Exposure can also occur through air, water, and soil, especially in areas with high industrial or agricultural activity.

 

Potential health effects

Although studies on the effects of endocrine disruptors in humans are still limited, observations in animals warrant caution.
Potential effects include:

  • Reproductive system abnormalities: decreased sperm quality, reduced testosterone, endometriosis, ovarian abnormalities, early puberty, and early menopause.
  • Hormone-dependent cancers: breast, prostate, testicular, ovarian, and uterine cancers.
  • Metabolic and developmental abnormalities: preterm births, low birth weight, behavioral disorders, obesity, diabetes.

 

Identifying endocrine disruptors

Regulation and Identification

To identify endocrine disruptors, it is possible to refer to the CLP Regulation, which defines the rules for Classification, Labeling, and Packaging of chemical products in Europe. A European text published on March 31, 2023 (Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/707 of December 19, 2022) amends the CLP Regulation by introducing specific rules for products of concern for health and/or the environment, including endocrine disruptors.

 

How to avoid endocrine disruptors in daily life?

The issue of endocrine disruptors should be integrated into a comprehensive approach to evaluating and preventing chemical risks.
Here are some practical tips:

  • Diet: Opt for organic agriculture to avoid pesticides.
  • Household products: Use eco-friendly cleaning products.
  • Cosmetics: Choose products without parabens and other suspect preservatives.
  • Plastics: Avoid plastics containing Bisphenol A and phthalates.
  • Textiles and furniture: Opt for materials without flame retardants.

 

Applications for better product choice

There are several mobile apps that enable consumers to check and detect the presence of endocrine disruptors. These apps allow you to scan product barcodes to get detailed information about their composition and potential health risks. By using these tools, it’s possible to make more informed choices and reduce your exposure to harmful substances.

 

Conclusion

Endocrine disruptors are a reality of our daily lives, but it is possible to limit their impact by making informed choices.

Companies must assess chemical risks, provide clear information about the components of their products, and replace endocrine disruptors with alternatives free of harmful substances.

Governments can make a significant contribution by funding research on the effects of endocrine disruptors, then developing regulations and establishing strict standards.

By working together, consumers, businesses, and governments can create a safer environment for our health and that of future generations.

 

Les perturbateurs endocriniens

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