The Dangers of Endocrine Disruptors: Chemicals That Threaten Health and Fertility
As a chemical 'messenger' (hormones) released by a complex network of glands directly into the bloodstream, the endocrine system is responsible for controlling various biological processes as well as cell and organ activity. However, are you aware that repeated exposure to chemicals, through the products you use every day, from cosmetics, food and beverage packaging, cooking utensils, furniture to tap water, can actually potentially cause endocrine dysfunction?
What Are Endocrine Disruptors?
Known as 'endocrine disrupting chemicals', these substances that enter the body through consumption, skin contact or inhalation are able to mimic the normal functioning of the hormone system. Not only are they adept at manipulating, these exogenous, synthetic and natural agents can also enhance or block the binding of hormones to their receptors, or vice versa, activate or inhibit endocrine signaling pathways and hormone metabolism. Even affecting the motility (swimming skills) and navigation of sperm and their ability to fertilize eggs.
Poor Motility = Infertility
Approximately 30% of infertility is due to low sperm concentration, morphological abnormalities, and poor swimming behavior.
BPA and Phthalates: What Are the Dangers?
BPA can mimic the hormone estrogen, while phthalates block the action of testosterone, thus having an antiandrogenic effect. Recent studies have shown that these chemicals have the potential to disrupt the reproductive process and affect fertility.
In a series of experiments conducted by a team of researchers from the Center of Advanced European Studies and Research in Bonn, Germany, and the University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, varying levels of chemicals, either singly or in combination, were added to a dish containing about a quarter of a million sperm.
Chemicals That Interfere with Sperm Function
Test results show that some single chemicals do not show significant effects at low doses. However, when mixed with other chemicals, the mixture becomes dangerous for sperm. Low doses can cause abnormalities in calcium levels in sperm, disrupt the swimming process, and result in fertilization failure.
How Do BPA and Phthalates Affect Women's Fertility?
When an egg meets a sperm, the egg is in control. The egg uses the hormone progesterone to control the sperm's swimming behavior, by activating an ion channel called 'CatSper' or cation (positive) sperm channel. However, the presence of endocrine disrupting chemicals in the female reproductive tract can interfere with the hormonal signals that guide sperm, reducing their sensitivity to progesterone and directing them to the wrong place.
Why Should We Be Alert?
The fact that endocrine disruptors can cause side effects even at low doses, given that the chemical compounds do not work independently, but rather act together synergistically, antagonistically or additively, is certainly not a trivial matter. Moreover, its status as a global health threat that endangers fertility by damaging sperm motility, regulatory testing of all common chemicals must be tightened.
How to Avoid Endocrine Disruptors
There are several steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from these dangerous chemicals:
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Choose Phthalates and BPA Free Products
Check the labels on products like cosmetics, personal care products, and cookware. Make sure they are free of harmful chemicals like phthalates and BPA. -
Use Organic and Natural Products
Choose products that contain natural and organic ingredients. Avoid products with synthetic additives or preservatives that are harmful to health. -
Avoiding Food Packaged in Plastic
Some plastics, especially plastics number 3, 6, and 7, contain harmful chemicals that can damage hormones. Use food packaging that is plastic-free or made from safer materials such as glass or stainless steel. -
Reduce Plastic Use
Avoid using single-use plastic and choose products with environmentally friendly and health-safe packaging.
The Role of Global Policy in Controlling Endocrine Disruptors
Policies such as the Toxic Substances Control Act administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) play a critical role in reviewing chemical safety standards. This is an important step to protect consumers, especially women who are biologically vulnerable.
Conclusion
Increasing awareness about the dangers of endocrine disruptors such as BPA and phthalates is essential for long-term health. Therefore, consumers need to be more careful in choosing everyday products that are free from these harmful chemicals. By following this guide, we can maintain health and fertility, as well as protect the environment from harmful chemical pollution.
