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[Specific toxicological considerations on anabolic agents; transmitted toxicity].
Environmental Quality and Safety. Supplement
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Diethylstilbestrol (DES) poses risks to livestock and consumers, impacting growth and reproduction. Natural hormones, when used under veterinary supervision, are deemed safe for anabolic purposes in livestock production.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Animal Science
Context:
- Urbanization and population growth necessitate intensive livestock production.
- Anabolic agents are administered to livestock to enhance growth and efficiency.
- Hormonal substances are used, divided into synthetic (DES-type) and natural compounds.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the toxicological effects of anabolic agents in livestock.
- To compare the safety of synthetic diethylstilbestrol (DES) with natural hormones.
- To assess the risks associated with consuming meat and liver from treated animals.
Summary:
- Diethylstilbestrol (DES) administration in rats and mice led to reduced growth rates and reproductive impairments.
- Meat and liver from DES-treated calves inhibited growth and reproduction in rodent models.
- Natural hormones (estradiol-progesterone, estradiol-testosterone) did not show adverse effects in similar toxicity tests.
- DES is not recommended for livestock; natural hormones may be used cautiously under veterinary guidance.
Impact:
- Highlights the potential health risks of synthetic anabolic agents like DES in the food chain.
- Supports the use of natural hormones in livestock production with appropriate controls.
- Informs regulatory decisions regarding the use of growth-promoting substances in animal agriculture.