EXPOSURE AND ASSOCIATED HEALTH RISK OF ENDOCRINE DISRUPTION COMPOUNDS

Abstract

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) are an inevitable environmental pollutant due to their wide range of applications in the industrial sector. Deliberate or unkempt disposal of materials containing EDCs has also significantly contributed to its ecological exposure. Several natural and synthetic chemicals are recognized EDCs which at low doses are capable of eliciting abnormal responses in the body, this is a threat to life for both human and animal health. Due to the hormone-like nature of most of the EDCs, they have the ability to disrupt the hormone signaling pathways leading to alteration of typical functioning of the endocrine system. These will eventually results in dysfunctions in key life processes such as growth and reproduction. Owing to serious health issues attached to EDC exposure in the ecosystem, continuous research is ongoing and inevitable for excellent conclusions, proper documentation, and formulation of regulatory policies toward maintaining a healthy ecosystem. The buildup of endocrine disruptors in organisms can be through the food chain, which may negatively impact ecosystems and organisms at low concentrations. This review discusses the sources, possible mechanisms of action and summarizes the adverse health effects of endocrine disruptors, as well as makes recommendations to alleviate the effects of the EDCs and their negative impact on animals and human health.