Not-so-talked-about side effects of endocrine disruptors – Last Minute Science Technology News

General Secretary of the Turkish Endocrinology and Metabolism Association, Prof. Dr. In her statement to the AA correspondent, Eda Ertörer said that external substances that interfere with the synthesis, secretion, circulation, metabolism, binding function and destruction of hormones necessary for the balance of reproductive and developmental processes are called “endocrine disruptors”.

Stating that plastics used in industry, products such as polyester, epoxy resin and teflon, some substances found in nature and used in agriculture such as soybean taken with food, and phthalates used in cosmetics and detergents are endocrine disruptors, Ertörer emphasized that these substances seriously threaten health.

Ertörer explained that these substances, most of which do not disappear and spread in nature for centuries after joining the food chain with industrial wastes, enter the organism through routes such as breathing, skin and mouth.

Stating that they accumulate in fat tissue, Ertörer said that it can take many years for the negative effects of endocrine disruptors on health to appear.

Ertörer said, “Exposure to these substances, especially in the womb or in the first years of life, can lead to serious problems in later ages. In addition to negative effects such as infertility and recurrent miscarriages, low intelligence, attention deficit, immune system problems, asthma, diabetes, obesity, breast and prostate problems.” “It may predispose to many diseases such as cancer and facilitate the formation of cancer.” he said.

“THOSE WORKING IN FIELDS RELATED TO HEAVY METALS SHOULD BE CLOSELY FOLLOWED DURING PREGNANCY”

Pointing out that it is not possible to be completely protected from endocrine disruptors with individual efforts, Ertörer stated that it is important to work collaboratively in different areas for this purpose.

Ertörer stated that legislators and practitioners have a great responsibility in this regard and said, “We should act together with international channels that have set strict control protocols in the process of mixing industrial wastes into nature, and studies in this field should be supported. Some drugs, especially those frequently used in agriculture and which can accumulate in products, should be closely inspected.” “Those who work in areas related to heavy metals should be closely monitored, especially during pregnancy, and necessary precautions should be taken against domestic exposure, and social awareness should be increased on these issues.” made suggestions.

Stating that there are precautions that can be taken individually to protect against endocrine disruptors, Ertörer said:

“In this context, glass products should be preferred instead of plastic containers whenever possible. Foods in plastic containers should not be heated, the contents of plastic bottles heated in the sun should not be consumed. Teflon household items should not be used, ready-made foods should be avoided, fresh vegetables and fruits should be consumed after washing very well, scented detergents and cosmetics should not be used. “Quality, well-known products should be preferred. In addition, supplements containing high doses of soy should not be used, and babies should be fed with breast milk as much as possible. Breastfeeding mothers should also pay attention to their nutrition during the day.”