Hormonal Injustice: Environmental Toxicants as Drivers of Endocrine Health Disparities

Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am. 2023 Dec;52(4):719-736. doi: 10.1016/j.ecl.2023.05.009. Epub 2023 Jun 11.

Abstract

The toll of multiple endocrine disorders has increased substantially in recent decades, and marginalized populations bear a disproportionate burden of disease. Because of the significant individual and societal impact of these conditions, it is essential to identify and address all modifiable risk factors contributing to these disparities. Abundant evidence now links endocrine dysfunction with exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), with greater exposures to multiple EDCs occurring among vulnerable groups, such as racial/ethnic minorities, those with low incomes, and others with high endocrine disease burdens. Identifying and eliminating EDC exposures is an essential step in achieving endocrine health equity.

Keywords: Diabetes; Disparities; Endocrine health; Endocrine-disrupting chemicals; Environmental justice; Obesity; Reproductive; Thyroid.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Endocrine Disruptors* / toxicity
  • Endocrine System
  • Environmental Exposure* / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Endocrine Disruptors