EDCs

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are natural or synthetic compounds that interfere with the hormonal systems of organisms. They can mimic, block, or otherwise alter the synthesis, transport, metabolism, or action of hormones, potentially affecting growth, reproduction, metabolism, and immune function. Effects may occur at low doses and may depend on timing, with fetal and early postnatal development representing particularly sensitive windows.

Common sources include plastics and food-contact materials (to which bisphenol A and certain phthalates are connected), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), pesticides such as atrazine and chlorinated compounds, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and some cosmetics and personal care products. Humans are exposed through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact, and some EDCs persist in the environment or bioaccumulate in the food chain.

Mechanisms: many EDCs act by binding to hormone receptors such as estrogen, androgen, or thyroid hormone receptors, while others affect hormone synthesis, transport, or clearance. Some can cause epigenetic changes, or disrupt signaling pathways in a non-genomic manner. Because mixtures of chemicals are common, combined effects may differ from effects of individual substances.

Health implications: research links EDC exposure to altered puberty timing, reduced or altered fertility, neurodevelopmental outcomes, obesity and metabolic disorders, and immune modulation. Evidence varies by chemical, exposure level, and population, and establishing causality remains challenging. Risk assessment increasingly considers real-world mixtures and vulnerable life stages.

Regulation and research: regulatory agencies in many countries set safety standards, restrict use of certain EDCs, or require safer alternatives. Ongoing research aims to improve exposure assessment, understand mixture effects, and elucidate low-dose and transgenerational outcomes.