Hormonally Active Agents in the Environment

Looks at the science behind the ominous prospect of 'estrogen mimics' threatening health and well-being, from the level of ecosystems and populations to individual people and animals. This book evaluates the literature on hormonally active agents in the environment and identifies known and suspected toxicologic mechanisms.

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Some investigators have hypothesized that estrogens and other hormonally active agents found in the environment might be involved in breast cancer increases and sperm count declines in humans as well as deformities and reproductive problems seen in wildlife.


This book looks in detail at the science behind the ominous prospect of "estrogen mimics" threatening health and well-being, from the level of ecosystems and populations to individual people and animals. The committee identifies research needs and offers specific recommendations to decision-makers.


This authoritative volume:




Critically evaluates the literature on hormonally active agents in the environment and identifies known and suspected toxicologic mechanisms and effects of fish, wildlife, and humans.
Examines whether and how exposure to hormonally active agents occurs—in diet, in pharmaceuticals, from industrial releases into the environment—and why the debate centers on estrogens.
Identifies significant uncertainties, limitations of knowledge, and weaknesses in the scientific literature.


The book presents a wealth of information and investigates a wide range of examples across the spectrum of life that might be related to these agents.

Table of Contents


Front Matter
Executive Summary
1 Introduction
2 Hormonally Active Agents
3 Exposures: Sources and Dynamics of Hormonally Active Agents in the Environment
4 Dosimetry
5 Effects on Reproduction and Development
6 Neurologic Effects
7 Immunologic Effects
8 HAAs and Carcinogenesis in Animals
9 HAAS and Carcinogenesis in Humans
10 Ecologic Effects
11 Screening and Monitoring
References
Appendix A: Reproductive Effects Caused by Deithylstilbesterol
Appendix B: Biographical Information on the Committee on Hormonally Active Agents in the Environment
Addendum: Endocrine Disruptor Screening and Testing Advisory Committee
Index