Research progress of phthalates' endocrine disrupting properties on humans and their usage in the consumer products

Abstract

Abstract. Phthalates, which were widely used as plasticizer and additives in various consumer products, were found to be associated with reproductive disorders in both men and women through their interaction with endocrine glands. These synthetic compounds, which could interfere or disrupt the normal synthesis, secretion, transportation, binding and metabolism of natural hormones were called endocrine disrupting chemicals(EDCs). The EDCs in consumer products might migrate from their source products and creating the potential for exposure. The phthalates were the major occurring EDCs in the consumer products, this paper reviewed their main sources, measured concentration in the consumer products and their endocrine disrupting properties in humans health.