VIBS 222: Endocrine Disruptors

What was DDT used for?

kill malaria and typhus vectors: mosquitoes

Which book got DDT banned?

Silent Spring by Rachel Carson

What were some problems with DDT in ANIMALS?

abnormal genitalia in alligators

decline in bald eagle population

What were some problems with DDT in HUMANS?

low birth weight

small skull circumference

What is DBP used for?

automotive parts

beverage containers

medical supplies

What is the MOST abundant synthetic chemical in the environment?

pthalates

What did INTRAUTERINE DBP treatment cause in male rabbits?

decreased test levels

increase in abnormal sperm

carcinoma in situs

What is DEHP and MEHP used for?

production of PVC plastics

medical and food packages

What is DEHP to MALES?

testicular toxicant

sertoli cell toxicant in vivo

What is DEHP to FEMALES?

decreased estradiol levels

no ovulations

What are the HEAVY metals?

mercury

lead

cadmium

manganese

What was CD linked to in MALES?

disrupted prostate development and prostate cancer

What are some ways to be exposed to CADMIUM?

welding

cigarette smoking

fish consumption

What does CIGARETTE smoke contain?

> 4000 chemical compounds

43 carcinogens

> 300 PAHs

How many people die from CIGARETTES/2ND HAND SMOKE yearly?

> 480,000 from smoking

> 41,000 from 2nd hand

What is the #1 PREVENTABLE cause of death in the U.S?

smoking

What are the risks of smoking for WOMEN?

60% higher risk for infertility

affected success for IVF

What are the risks of smoking for MEN?

reduced sperm quality, count, motility

higher rates of infertility

What are PAHs?

chemicals formed during incomplete burning of organic substances

What are some EXAMPLES of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons?

napthalene

benzopyrene