Speculation Chemicals Having Hormonal Effects on Humans

Researchers fear that chemicals in the environment have created compounds with hormonelike effects that could have negative effects upon humans. Industry reps dispute the speculations. U.S. Reps James P. Moran (D-Md) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md) are asking EPA to test chemicals for hormonelike effects. The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments is hosting a public forum on hormone disrupting pollution in the Spring of 2007.

Researchers believe the peculiar pollution could contribute to diabetes, birth defects, infertility, reproductive defects, immune system alterations and obesity. Some researchers believe intersex fish, pictured above left, may occur as a result of chemicals in the water that mimic or antagonize hormone levels. Three sources of concern being examined are: 1) Bisphenol A, 2) Phthalates and 3) Treated Sewage. (Wash Post) Photo courtesy FWS