Chemicals as “global threat”

A couple of international organizations have declared chemicals that are disruptive to endocrine-system function as a “global threat” to human and wildlife health.

A report released by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Environment Program concluded that endocrine-related diseases and disorders have become more prevalent, according to Environmental Health News.

The organizations believe chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates are to blame for the increase in male reproductive problems, pregnancy complications, some forms of cancer, obesity and brain-development issues, while persistent pollutant chemicals such as DDT and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) represent a significant health risk to humans and wildlife.