Health Effects of Fossil Fuel–Derived Endocrine Disruptors

KEY POINTS

Health Effects of Fossil Fuel–Derived Endocrine Disruptors

• Pollution is the leading cause of premature death globally.
• Fossil fuels contribute to chemical pollution through production of petrochemicals, many of which interfere with hormonal function (endocrine-disrupting chemicals [EDCs]). Examples include perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in food packaging and fabrics and phthalates in plastics and consumer products.
• Petrochemical production is increasing, and people are exposed through contaminated air, water, food, and manufactured products (e.g., plastics, pesticides, building materials, and cosmetics).
• EDCs can increase several health risks, including cancer, neurodevelopmental harm, and infertility.
• Risks are higher with exposures during fetal and child development and with exposure to multiple EDCs and occur at low exposure levels. Exposures are higher in communities of color and low-income communities and contribute to health inequities.
• Clinicians can provide advice to patients toward reducing some exposures, but policy change is needed to establish legal requirements for comprehensive safety testing and to reduce health threats from petrochemicals. Clinicians are important advocates for these changes.