How do endocrinal disrupters affect our health?

Endocrinal disruptors are chemical compounds that can interfere in the work of the hormones involved in many biological processes that take place during the course of our lives, such as growth, puberty and cardiac function. These compounds can be found in many of the products that we use every day, such as the flame retardants in tissues, the perfluorates in frying pans, the parabens that prevent bacteria from growing in cosmetics and bisphenol A, which prevents food from coming into direct contact with food cans. Studies on animals have shown that endocrinal disruptors can affect neuronal development, and may increase the risk of obesity, diabetes or asthma. They have also been linked with certain types of cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer, though evidence for this in humans is not yet clear. Even though a great deal of research has been carried out in this area, there are still no conclusive epidemiological studies on its effects in people.

However, epidemiologists advise us to apply the principle of precaution until the scientific community comes to a unanimous, decisive verdict on the issue. Or rather, we should try to avoid exposure to these compounds until they are proven to be completely innocuous.

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Cycle: SCIENCE ON MONDAY

Organized by: Residencia de Investigadores y Centros de Investigación de Cataluña - Institución CERCA