Study: PBDEs Affect Hormone Critical to Fetal Development

A new study reveals that pregnant women who have elevated levels of a chemical prevalent in certain flame retardants have, conversely, decreased thyroid hormones critical to fetal brain development.

The study was conducted and the results were subsequently released by the University of California, Berkeley. 

Study Details

The chemicals in question are identified as polybrominateddiphenylethers, (PBDEs), compounds found in the blood levels of most Americans.  PBDEs are found in flame retardants that are added to cars, electronics and home furnishings (US News and World Report).

For the study, 270 pregnant women with varying levels of PBDEs in the bloodstream were evaluated.

According to Jonathon Chevrier, affiliated with the Center for Children’s Environment Health Research, the women displaying higher levels of PBDE were more likely to have “subclinical hyperthyroidism,” which is marked by lower levels of a thyroid stimulating hormone with normal levels of thyroxine, or T4, a thyroid hormone.   The bottom line results are increased levels of T4.

Higher levels of T4 are associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth and retardation of intrauterine growth, according to Brenda Eskenazi, co author of the study.

ATSDR Public Health Statement

According to the U.S. Toxic Substance and Disease Registry (ATSDR), PBDEs are typically added to foams and plastics to make them more difficult to burn.  Because they are mixed into said foams and plastics, they are able to leave them and enter the environment; thus, the prevalence of the chemicals in blood levels.

According to the ATSDR website, “If you are exposed to [PBDEs], many factors will determine whether you will be harmed. These factors include the dose (how much), the duration (how long), and how you come in contact with PBBs. You must also consider any other chemicals you are exposed to and your age, sex, diet, family traits, lifestyle, and state of health.”

For the complete health statement regarding PBDEs, visit the ATSDR website at www.atsdr.cdc.gov.