Chapters authored
The Link between Environmental Toxicant Exposure and Endometriosis Re-Examined
Endometriosis is widely acknowledged to be an estrogen dependent disease or unknown etiology. Recognition that environmental toxicants can bind with and activate the estrogen receptor, dysregulate steroid metabolism and, in some cases, act as anti-androgenic substances (phthalate esters) has led to proposal that exposure to environmental toxicants are associated with increased risk of endometriosis. Since our last review of the subject in 2008, the literature has expanded with several epidemiological and biomonitoring studies suggesting a potential association, whereas others have been unable to demonstrate a link between exposure and enhanced risk. Therefore, we carried out a systematic review and critical appraisal of the literature published over the past decade (2009–2019). The majority of studies found dealt with exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, dioxin-like and non-dioxin-like compounds, bisphenol A and phthalate esters. Several studies suggest a potential association between exposure to environmental toxicants; however, important weaknesses in study design, methodology, and analysis together with many contradictory studies weaken confidence in these associations. Consequently, we conclude that despite a growing literature, evidence for an association between exposure to environmental toxicants and risk of endometriosis remains weak.
Part of the book: Endometriosis