Researchers Investigate Endocrine Disruptors in Occitanie's Air

Researchers in Occitanie, France, have embarked on a study to identify and quantify endocrine disruptors in the region's ambient air. These chemicals, found in various consumer products, have potential health impacts, yet their presence in the air has remained largely unassessed and unregulated.

The study, initiated by Atmo Occitanie with state funding, is the first of its kind in France. Over a 14-month period, researchers identified 46 endocrine disruptors out of 56 molecules they searched for. These disruptors include phthalates, PAHs, alkylphenols, insecticides, and synthetic musks, commonly found in items such as cosmetics, detergents, furniture, and packaging materials.

Using specially developed cartridges, the team took 19 samples at five locations: urban areas in Montpellier and Toulouse, rural sites in Aude and Haute-Garonne, and an industrial area in Alès. The sensors, installed 4-5 meters above the ground, captured particles and gases for analysis at the Sorbonne laboratory.

Understanding the presence and impact of endocrine disruptors in ambient air is essential for public health and environmental safety. If left unregulated, these chemicals can have long-term consequences on human health and the ecosystem.

Thierry Suaud, an administrator at Atmo Occitanie, emphasized the importance of the study, noting, "Through the air we breathe, we charge ourselves." Dominique Tilak, the association's director, added, "We want to identify and quantify the presence of endocrine disruptors in ambient air, analyze variations over the course of the year, and evaluate the risks, particularly the cocktail effect."

The findings revealed that 34 of the 46 identified endocrine disruptors were present in at least 75% of the samples, with 25 detected year-round. This continuous presence highlights the potential for long-term exposure and the need for comprehensive health risk assessments.

The study's methodology will extend over three years, incorporating additional pollutants such as PFAS. The first results are expected within a year, with further conclusions about health impacts and regulatory decisions anticipated later. The goal is to provide dense data for health researchers and inform potential policy changes.

Suaud reassured the public, stating, "Don't panic: what we are going to find out, we are already breathing it. So it's not about getting carried away. On the contrary, it is about knowing and knowing so that you can react. "

The study in Occitanie marks a significant step in understanding the presence and impact of endocrine disruptors in ambient air. By providing comprehensive data, researchers hope to inform health assessments and potential regulatory measures to address these pervasive chemicals.

Key Takeaways

• Researchers in France study endocrine disruptors in ambient air, finding 46 out of 56 targeted molecules.
• Disruptors include phthalates, PAHs, alkylphenols, insecticides, and synthetic musks from consumer products.
• 34 of the identified disruptors were present in at least 75% of samples, with 25 detected year-round.
• The 3-year study aims to inform health risk assessments and potential policy changes.
• Findings will provide dense data for health researchers and policymakers to address endocrine disruptors in air.