New site tracks chemicals' effect on development

A new Web site launching tomorrow compiles extensive research on hormone-disrupting chemicals like BPA and phthalates and shows their impact on the timeline of fetal development.

The Web site was created by a group of scientists who have studied these chemicals and their effect on development for decades. The site - “Critical Windows of Development” - creates a one-stop location for those looking into the impact of endocrine disruptors. The site also includes information on what you can do to decrease your exposure to these chemicals.

All scientific studies used were peer-reviewed, published and reviewed again by the 40 scientists of the Endocrine Disruptor Exchange, according to a story in Environmental Health News.

Many human diseases, including asthma, autism, prostate cancer and breast cancer, are reaching record numbers, while animal research has shown that exposure to certain chemicals in the womb might lead to disease by skewing development of the brain, reproductive tract and other systems.

Critical Windows focuses on fetal development because it is the most vulnerable time for damage from hormones or hormone mimics.

The timeline includes studies of lab animals exposed to these chemicals at low levels – as low as one part per million – which reflects the low levels of exposure humans may receive from consumer products containing BPA and phthalate

This information is helpful to the public and will also be very useful for government bodies considering the safety of these chemicals and whether they should be allowed in consumer products.