Endocrine Disruptors
The Center is presently researching the role of endocrine disruptors in the development of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and neurodevelopmental disorders in children.
Endocrine disruptors are naturally occurring compounds or man-made substances that may mimic or interfere with the function of hormones in the body. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals include: bisphenol-A (BPA), phthalates, polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These chemicals are found in many products we use daily, including plastic bottles and containers, liners of metal food cans, detergents, food, toys, cosmetics, and pesticides. PAHs are urban air pollutants.
Resources
More information about endocrine disruptors:
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Environmental Working Group
- Healthy Child Healthy World
- The Green Guide
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (pdf)
- Natural Resources Defense Council
More information about how you can reduce your exposure to specific chemicals: