endocrine disruptor

American  

noun

1. a natural or synthetic chemical that mimics or blocks the action of a natural hormone and that may disrupt the body's endocrine system.

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Other Word Forms

• endocrine disruption
  noun

Etymology

Origin of endocrine disruptor

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

According to France's food safety agency Anses, it is an endocrine disruptor - meaning it interferes with the body's hormones - and is believed to be linked to health issues including breast cancer and infertility.

From BBC • Jul. 20, 2024

But it's also an endocrine disruptor, which means that it can interfere with normal hormone functions in the body.

From Science Daily • Mar. 1, 2024

Identified as an endocrine disruptor, BPA has been linked to breast and ovarian cancer, as well as immune, thyroid, and metabolic issues.

From National Geographic • Jun. 20, 2023

An endocrine disruptor is a molecule with a structure that mimics a hormone and can interfere with regulation.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

What is an endocrine disruptor and what are the tangible effects that we have seen it have on, for instance, sperm counts or important aspects of female reproductive health?

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2021