Endocine Discrupting Chemicals (known as
EDCs) have been shown to be having a negative effect upon the population and
wildlife. EDCs are chemicals which disrupt the hormone system and can be found
in many household chemicals and pharmaceuticals. They either mimic the estrogen
and androgen sex steroid hormones by binding to their natural receptors, alter the synthesis and breakdown
of natural hormones or modify the production and functioning of hormone
receptors.
Below is a table of chemicals that are
estrogenic…
Although it is difficult to test and show
direct effects that certain EDCs may be having upon individuals, it is clear
that these EDCs are harming wildlife and potentially causing an increase in
cancers and fertility problems.
There are however problems with testing the
effects of the EDCs upon humans. EDCs can cause problems with early development
of the brain, reproductive, immune and metabolic systems, however, the effects
don’t usually show until potentially years or decades after being exposed to
the EDCs. It is also difficult to tell whether it a combination if EDCs and something
else that are having these detrimental effects or whether it is jut the EDCs
themselves.
Despite the apparent difficulties involved with
testing the direct effects of these chemicals, there is a direct link that has
been established between EDCs and their dangers.
For example, it is now widely accepted that
being exposed to estrogenic EDCs is a risk factor for breast cancer, fibroids
and polycystic ovarian syndrome (in women). There are also studies that have shown that
exposure to some EDCs can be linked to some neurodevelopmental disorders such
as autism and diminished cognitive function in children.
It is not only humans that these EDCs can
affect. Tests have shown that EDCs can cause harm to the reproductive systems
of a broad range of vertebrate species.
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