Original Articles
Awareness and attitude about endocrine disruptors among teenage girls | |
Dr. Saumya Arora, Dr. Manisha Jain, Dr. Nishat Ahmed | |
Background: Puberty represents a critical phase of developmental changes that signifies the shift from sexual immaturity to reproductive maturity. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) pose potential health risks through a variety of mechanisms. Hence; the present study was conducted for assessing awareness and attitude about endocrine disruptors (ED) among teenage girls. Materials & methods: Observational cross section study conducted by dept of gynaecology at PCMS and RC. 100 unmarried girls willing to participate in study were offered voluntary participation after informed consent.An online survey conducted using a structured questionnaire. All items related to awareness about ED, daily use items containing ED and their weekly exposure, hours of screen exposure and bed time was studied. Items related to preventive measures taken by girls to avoid ED exposure was also tabulated. Questionnaire related to menstrual irregularity and any other endocrine dysfunction were also interviewed. All data were tabulated and were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. SPSS software was used for assessment of level of significance. Results:Most frequently used substances in day to day which had endocrine disrupting chemicals was found in personal care products.Out of 100 females 1/3rd of the females had menstrual irregularities.Out of 100 females 66% females had sleep timing after 12 am with majority screen exposure of 4-8 hours per day.Of the 30% of females who are aware of endocrinal disruptors majority were willingly adapting use of stainless steel bottles and organic cosmetics as preventive measure to reduce the use of EDC’S. In the survey which was carried out it was concluded that only 40% females had heard about endocrine disruptors. Of which > 50% had heard about bisphenols, paraben and PCB. Conclusion:Mass education of adolescent girls spreading awareness about ED and measures to minimize their exposure is warranted. Well-designed randomised controlled trials may be warranted to study clear associations between ED and female reproductive system |
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