Can chemicals cause obesity?
The Endocrine Society have warned that exposure to certain chemicals can lead to obesity and diabetes. The new publication builds on the Society’s 2009 report which examined the role of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) and human health. A study over 5 years was carried out in order to discover the potential role of EDCs in the development of obesity and diabetes. EDCs mimic, block and interfere with hormones within the body, this in turn alters the way cells within the body develop.
EDCs include dioxin chemicals produced during waste incineration, polychlorinated biphenyls, pesticides and bisphenol A (found in food can linings and receipts). Andrea Gore, Vacek Chair of Pharmacology at the University of Texas said ‘the evidence is more definitive than ever before – EDCs disrupt hormones in a manner that harms human health.’ The Society called for additional research to be carried out to discover more about the mechanisms involved; regulation to ensure that exposure to chemicals is minimised; creation of products that are safe; and education for the public and policy makers so that EDCs are kept out of food, water and the air.
