Due to rapid industrialization, the use of chemicals has increased rapidly, making it easier for us to be exposed to Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals. Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) are not substances made normally in our body, but substances produced through industrial activities.

EDCs interfere with the way the body’s hormones work. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, EDCs are defined as extrinsic substances that interfere with the production, secretion, migration, metabolism, binding, and excretion of hormones that regulate the body's homeostasis and development process. When EDCs are absorbed into the body, they can disrupt the endocrine system and cause various diseases.

EDCs are contained in substances easily accessible around us and are introduced into the body through the skin, mouth, and respiratory system. Countless products such as foods in disposable containers, receipts, air fresheners, cosmetics, and detergents pose a risk from EDCs.

EDCs can affect reproductive organs, brain development, and skin diseases. For example, bisphenol A which is included in receipt ink causes breast cancer, precocious puberty, and sperm reduction. In addition, phthalate used in materials such as perfumes and air fresheners are additives that soften the plastic, which can degrade brain development and possibly cause ADHD.

Formaldehyde in adhesives can also cause skin disease such as allergies and atopic dermatitis. Several recent studies have shown that the number of metabolic diseases has increased due to EDCs, affecting the rate of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cancer incidence.

EDCs do not disappear easily when accumulated in the body, so it is necessary to make a habit of reducing them. To protect your body from EDCs, you should thoroughly check the contents of chemical products that may leak them and reduce the use of disposable products and plastics.

For example, it is helpful to use tumblers and eco bags instead of using paper cups and plastic bags. Toys for children are recommended to be products made of wood-friendly materials rather than plastic. It is also better to avoid touching receipts as much as possible after purchasing products, and to replace them with mobile receipts if possible. The easiest but most important way to protect your health from EDCs is to wash your hands often and drink a lot of water.

L.L.F reporter Hyeon-Bin Song