[Fetal exposure to endocrine disruptors]

Abstract

Endocrine disruptors act to alter blood hormone levels or the subsequent action of hormones. Disturbances of hormonal regulation during fetal or postnatal development in human may induce adverse effects, but these adverse effects of endocrine disruptors on humans are subtle. We investigated fetal exposure to endocrine disruptors in Japan by analyzing umbilical cords or cord sera. Many endocrine disruptors including dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine pesticides, bisphenol A, nonylphenol and phytoestrogen were detected in umbilical cords and cord sera. Here we summarize the present status of fetal exposure to endocrine disruptors in Japan and other countries.