Endocrine disruptors and children's health.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are environmental contaminants that disrupt hormonal homeostasis, adversely affecting biological systems. These compounds can affect the endocrine system by mimicking natural hormones or disrupting hormonal balance [ 1 ]. Thousands of natural and synthetic chemicals, widely found in plastics, pesticides, industrial chemicals, and personal care products, act as EDCs. These compounds disrupt hormonal signaling and contribute to reproductive dysfunction, neurodevelopmental delays, metabolic disorders, and malignancies [ 2 , 3 ]. Children and fetuses are especially vulnerable to EDC exposure due to their heightened vulnerability during key developmental stages. Exposure during these sensitive periods can interfere with organ system formation and differentiation, resulting in long-term health consequences [ 4 – 6 ]. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of EDCs’ mechanisms and impacts is essential for developing effective protective strategies for children and future generations. EDCs disrupt the endocrine system through multiple mechanisms, including direct receptor binding, mimicking or blocking natural hormone activity, altering hormone synthesis and metabolism, and influencing gene expression [ 7 ]. EDCs can activate or inhibit estrogen, androgen, and thyroid hormone receptors and modulate other nuclear receptors, including glucocorticoid, mineralocorticoid, and aryl hydrocarbon receptors, thereby disrupting endocrine signaling [ 8 ]. Additionally, epigenetic mechanisms regulated by hormones during early life are considered fundamental mediators of the long-term effects of EDCs exposure [ 9 ]. Mechanisms like deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation, histone modifications, and micro ribonucleic acid (microRNA) expression can mediate the transgenerational effects of prenatal exposure. They can disrupt cellular functions on their own or synergistically with one another, a phenomenon known as the “cocktail effect.” Nevertheless, the molecular pathways responsible for this synergistic effect remain incompletely understood and require further investigation [ 10 ]. Consequently, early-life exposure to EDCs has been linked to a heightened risk of childhood diseases, including neurodevelopmental disorders, reproductive dysfunction, obesity, type 2 diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, and even a heightened risk of certain malignancies [ 8 , 11 ].

EDCs pose significant risks to children’s health, particularly during the fetal, neonatal, and pubertal stages, making it essential to minimize exposure during these critical periods. Lifestyle modifications, policy regulations, and awareness-raising initiatives are essential strategies to reduce EDC exposure in children. Plastic use, especially products containing BPA, should be minimized in favor of safer alternatives such as glass or stainless steel. Adopting an organic diet can reduce exposure to pesticides and agricultural chemicals, while using natural cleaning products and avoiding canned foods can help minimize household sources of EDCs [ 13 , 88 , 89 ]. The European Union has classified EDCs as high-risk substances and prohibited their use in pesticides. Similarly, comprehensive international regulatory measures are recommended to mitigate their harmful effects. Additionally, awareness programs for mothers before conception could help reduce EDC exposure during critical fetal and neonatal periods, minimizing potential health risks. Therefore, education programs that raise parental awareness and enhance knowledge about EDCs are urgently needed to mitigate their potential health risks. Combining lifestyle changes, policies, and educational efforts is pivotal in reducing EDC exposure and protecting children’s long-term health.

Following the surge in industrialization in the 20th century and the rise in consumption, numerous new chemicals have entered our daily lives. Unfortunately, over time, many of these chemicals have been found to possess endocrine-disrupting properties and are associated with various health disorders. These substances are now known as EDCs. Infants and children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of EDCs due to their immature defense mechanisms. Moreover, as their organ systems are still developing, early exposure may result in long-term health consequences, including neurological and reproductive disorders, as well as cardiometabolic diseases and even cancer. Moreover, perhaps, in the future, many currently unexplained health issues may be linked to early-life EDC exposure. A significant challenge in addressing EDCs is identifying these substances. The vast number of potentially harmful chemicals makes it difficult to establish clear cause-and-effect relationships. Even when certain chemicals are identified and banned, their replacements may also pose new risks. Although research on EDCs is increasing, we are still far from fully understanding their effects. There is a continued need for extensive studies in this area. The effects of EDCs are complex, and their impact evolves. Some health consequences become apparent many years after childhood exposure. Due to many chemicals with unclear effects and the uncertainty of their long-term impacts, there is a critical need for more proactive regulations to protect children. Just as new drugs must undergo rigorous safety testing before reaching the market, chemicals used in products for children should also undergo similar safety assessments before widespread adoption. EDCs are a growing concern that affects everyone, but children are at the highest risk. To protect future generations, we must advance comprehensive research and implement proactive and stringent regulations without delay.