An assessment of the state of the science of endocrine disruptors prepared by a group of experts for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and WHO
This document provides the global status of scientific knowledge on exposure to and effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs).
The work is based on the fact that endocrine systems are very similar across vertebrate species and that endocrine effects manifest themselves independently of species. The effects are endocrine system related and not necessarily species dependent. Effects shown in wildlife or experimental animals may also occur in humans if they are exposed to EDCs at a vulnerable time and at concentrations leading to alterations of endocrine regulation. Of special concern are effects on early development of both humans and wildlife, as these effects are often irreversible and may not become evident until later in life. The third and final chapter of this document discusses exposure of humans and wildlife to EDCs and potential EDCs.
Sources and more information
- State of the science of endocrine disrupting chemicals – 2012, WHO press release,
- Download the Summary for Decision-Makers (2.84Mb) and the full report (11.71Mb), February 2013
- Our posts tagged BPA – Endocrine Disruptors – Pesticides – Phthalates