On October 1, 2013 the scientific journal The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology published an editorial in which it reports on some of the difficulties in proving conclusive associations between potential endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and human disease. While the editorial asserts that there is “little doubt that EDCs cause harm”, it affirms that epidemiological studies are often contradictory, because EDCs are frequently only measured indirectly and studies fail to be generalizable. The editors consider it necessary to reach consensus on what type and strength of evidence is required to trigger political action. For this purpose stakeholder should define an acceptable risk for EDCs during the coming decade. Further, the editors express their opinion that regulation of EDCs needs to be balanced against the industry’s needs. Strengthening the evidence base will facilitate balancing the protection of vulnerable populations against commercial interests, the editorial contends.
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The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology (October 1, 2013) “EDCs: negotiating the precautionary principle.” The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology 1, 2, 79.
