Impact of PBDEs on Hormones in Male Fish Consumers
Author Information
Author(s): Turyk Mary E., Persky Victoria W., Imm Pamela, Knobeloch Lynda, Chatterton Robert Jr., Anderson Henry A.
Primary Institution: University of Illinois at Chicago
Hypothesis
Are PBDE body burdens related to thyroid and steroid hormone levels in adult male sport fish consumers?
Conclusion
PBDE exposure was associated with increased thyroglobulin antibodies and increased T4 in adult males.
Supporting Evidence
- PBDEs were positively related to measures of T4 and reverse T3.
- Participants with PBDEs over the 95th percentile were more likely to have thyroglobulin antibodies.
- High PBDE exposure was not associated with thyroid disease.
Takeaway
This study found that chemicals called PBDEs, found in some fish, can change hormone levels in men who eat a lot of fish.
Methodology
Serum from 405 adult males was tested for PBDEs, PCBs, and various hormone levels.
Potential Biases
Potential confounding from other environmental exposures and lifestyle factors.
Limitations
The study was cross-sectional, limiting causal inferences.
Participant Demographics
Adult male sport fish consumers, with a mean age of 59 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI, 24–30 ng/g lipid
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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