We are observing an alarming escalation of the prevalence of obesity in wealthy developed countries as well as in poor nations. Such simultaneous global increase in obesity seems to be driven especially by changes in our life style. We eat more, and exercise less. It is, however, becoming increasingly clear that our current unhealthy lifestyle, possible ‘bad‘ genes and the interaction between them can NOT explain the rapid increase in the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Our environment has changed considerably during the last few decades because of the ever increasing use and distribution of several synthetic organic and inorganic chemicals, like compounds which keep plastics strong (Bisphenol A), or flame retardants. Some of these substances mimic the action of natural hormones or block their actions by binding to cell receptors. They are therefore called Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs). They disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine system, and thereby influence many physiological pathways, amongst others those involved in the regulation of metabolism, energy and body weight. The European Uniopn has recently banned the use of Bisphenol A in baby bottles.
What is even more alarming is the recent finding that EDCs may cause epigenetic modifications. Exposures to certain EDCs may lead to permanent epigenetic changes with altered DNA methylation patterns in multiple genes that resulted in altered gene transcription. Furthermore, these epigenetic changes can be passed on from one generation to the next. There are new data which support the concept that EDCs are important contributing factors in the expanding obesity epidemic. As many studies have been done in animals, we need more research on the effects of EDCs in humans.
Already a paper in JAMA, 2008, came to the following conclusion: “Higher Bisphenol A exposure, reflected in higher urinary concentrations of Bisphenol A, may be associated with avoidable morbidity in the community-dwelling adult population” (http://goo.gl/kIJMV). And a 2012 article in the same journal concluded: “Urinary BPA concentration was significantly associated with obesity in this cross-sectional study of children and adolescents. Explanations of the association cannot rule out the possibility that obese children ingest food with higher BPA content or have greater adipose stores of BPA.” (http://goo.gl/hPHw9).
A recent UN study, which is the most comprehensive report on EDCs to date, highlights some associations between exposure to EDCs and health problems including the potential for such chemicals to contribute to the development of non-descended testes in young males, breast cancer in women, prostate cancer in men, developmental effects on the nervous system in children, attention deficit / hyperactivity in children and thyroid cancer (see the following link: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2013/hormone_disrupting_20130219/en/ ).
“We urgently need more research to obtain a fuller picture of the health and environment impacts of endocrine disruptors,” said Dr Maria Neira, WHO’s Director for Public Health and Environment. “The latest science shows that communities across the globe are being exposed to EDCs, and their associated risks. WHO will work with partners to establish research priorities to investigate links to EDCs and human health impacts in order to mitigate the risks. We all have a responsibility to protect future generations.”
More research on the potential interactions between endocrine disruptors, lifestyle and genetic factors determining obesity risk in humans is urgently needed.
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