Anogenital Distance: Defining 'Normal'
2006

Anogenital Distance and Phthalate Exposure

publication

Author Information

Author(s): Bernard Weiss

Primary Institution: University of Rochester

Hypothesis

Is there a relationship between anogenital distance in boys and levels of phthalate metabolites in their mothers’ urine during pregnancy?

Conclusion

A slight decrease in anogenital distance at birth may indicate a higher prevalence of reproductive system dysfunction in males.

Supporting Evidence

  • Shortened anogenital distance at birth is linked to reproductive system dysfunction.
  • A small change in the mean can lead to significant changes in the population.
  • Even a slight reduction in mean intelligence can increase the number of individuals classified as retarded.

Takeaway

If baby boys have shorter anogenital distances, it might mean more boys could have problems with their reproductive health later on.

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