Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a heterogeneous group of exogenous chemicals or chemical mixtures that interfere with the action of hormones and cause adverse effects. Humans are constantly exposed to hundreds of EDCs mainly through air, water, and food. Pregnant women are exposed to multiple EDCs that can cross the placenta and enter the fetus. The developing fetus and neonate are more sensitive than adults to perturbation by EDCs. The prevalence of diabetes has risen dramatically over the last several decades.

Methods

A systematic search of literature was conducted using the search terms endocrine-disrupting chemicals, obesogens, prenatal exposure, type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and vulnerable populations.

Results

The number of EDCs has markedly increased over the past 60 years. The potential contribution of several EDCs (e.g., bisphenol A, dioxins, phthalates, polychlorinated biphenyls, and organochlorine pesticides) to the development of diabetes has been proposed by several epidemiological studies. Prenatal and early-life exposures to EDCs can promote the development of type 1 diabetes by increasing the risk of autoimmunity and affecting β-cell development and function. EDCs with androgenic activity (e.g., bisphenol A) may interfere with β-cell function, impair insulin secretion by accelerating insulitis, and cause type 1 diabetes. Several EDCs called obesogens may promote the development of type 2 diabetes through weight gain and the resulting insulin resistance. The higher burden of diabetes in the vulnerable populations of the USA (e.g., Latinos, African Americans, and low-income individuals) may be partly due to a higher exposure of these populations to diabetogenic EDCs.

Conclusion

Exposure to EDCs may be a significant component of the environmental origin of diabetes. Promotion of public knowledge and initiation of preventive measures, especially in the vulnerable populations, will help minimizing the exposure to EDCs and the resulting diabetes.