Effect of endocrine disruptor pesticides: a review

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2011 Jun;8(6):2265-303. doi: 10.3390/ijerph8062265. Epub 2011 Jun 17.

Abstract

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC) are compounds that alter the normal functioning of the endocrine system of both wildlife and humans. A huge number of chemicals have been identified as endocrine disruptors, among them several pesticides. Pesticides are used to kill unwanted organisms in crops, public areas, homes and gardens, and parasites in medicine. Human are exposed to pesticides due to their occupations or through dietary and environmental exposure (water, soil, air). For several years, there have been enquiries about the impact of environmental factors on the occurrence of human pathologies. This paper reviews the current knowledge of the potential impacts of endocrine disruptor pesticides on human health.

Keywords: biomonitoring; endocrine disruptors; human effect; pesticides.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endocrine Disruptors / toxicity*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pesticides / adverse effects
  • Pesticides / chemistry
  • Pesticides / metabolism*

Substances

  • Endocrine Disruptors
  • Pesticides