Human endocrine disruption: an updated review of toxicological insights into parabens and phthalates
摘要
Every day, humans are exposed to a wide range of chemicals from numerous sources. A variety of contaminants are released into the environment through the use of personal care products (PCPs). In recent years, various types of beauty care products have been introduced, and their usage has significantly increased. Although the concentrations of harmful chemicals in PCPs are minimal, they can have adverse effects on human health and well-being. These chemicals primarily affect the endocrine system and may impair human reproductive success. Parabens and phthalates are common endocrine-disrupting chemicals present in PCPs used daily. Several previous studies have reported the harmful effects of parabens and phthalates, such as disruptions in thyroid gland secretion, sperm production, and reproductive hormone secretion, causing infertility, carcinogenesis, and pregnancy-related complications. Conversely, other studies have found either no significant effects or only negligible impacts on the human endocrine system. Therefore, in this review, we examine the harmful effects of parabens and phthalates on the human endocrine system by analyzing updated findings from various in vitro and in vivo studies. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate has been associated with endometriosis, intrauterine growth retardation, fibromyoma, and pregnancy loss. Similarly, butyl paraben has been shown to reduce sperm concentration and sperm count; methyl paraben to impair poor sperm motility; and propyl paraben to alter follicle-stimulating hormone concentration. Furthermore, it has been observed that the effects of parabens and phthalates are more pronounced in animals than in humans primarily due to higher dosages administered during in vivo studies. In summary, the toxic effects of parabens and phthalates on the human endocrine system depend largely on dosage, geographical location, lifestyle factors, and duration of exposure.