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Published on: March 6, 2018
Endocrine disruptors and spontaneous premature labor: a case control study
Stephen L Wood1, John J Jarrell, Cheryl Swaby
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, 1403 29th St NW Calgary Alberta Canada. stephen.wood@calgaryhealthregion.ca
Environmental Health : a Global Access Science Source
|November 17, 2007
Summary
This study found no association between serum levels of DDE, daidzein, and genistein and spontaneous preterm labor. Low DDE concentrations and rapid phytoestrogen reduction may explain these findings in the studied population.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Premature labor is a complex condition potentially influenced by endocrine disruptors.
- Estrogen's role in labor suggests environmental toxicants and dietary compounds may impact preterm birth.
- Investigating environmental toxicant DDE and phytoestrogens daidzein and genistein is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if DDE, daidzein, and genistein are associated with spontaneous preterm labor.
- To assess the relationship between serum concentrations of these compounds and preterm birth.
- To understand the potential impact of endocrine disruptors on labor onset.
Main Methods:
- Case-control study involving primiparous women with spontaneous preterm delivery (before 35 weeks) and term delivery controls.
- Recruited 26 cases and 52 controls over one year.
- Collected postpartum blood samples to measure serum concentrations of DDE, daidzein, and genistein.
Main Results:
- Mean serum DDE concentrations were similar between preterm labor cases and controls (4.29 vs 4.32 ng/g lipid).
- No significant differences in mean serum daidzein (0.30 vs 0.34 ng/ml) or genistein (0.39 vs 0.31 ng/ml) concentrations were observed.
- Detectable levels of daidzein and genistein were found in both case and control groups, with similar prevalence and concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Serum DDE levels in the studied population were low.
- No apparent relationship was found between serum DDE, daidzein, or genistein concentrations and spontaneous preterm labor.
- Low DDE levels and rapid/variable phytoestrogen reduction might limit the detection of effects.
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