Association between pyrethroids and prostate endpoints; stratified according to renal function

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Pyrethroids are widely used insecticides with presumed low human toxicity.
• Emerging evidence suggests potential adverse effects of pyrethroids on human reproductive organs.
• The prostate gland is a key area of concern regarding pyrethroid exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between pyrethroid exposure and prostate health.
• To determine if pyrethroids affect prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels.
• To examine these effects in relation to kidney function.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from 1305 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
• Measurement of 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA), a pyrethroid metabolite, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
• Logistic and linear regression analyses stratified by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to assess kidney function.

Main Results:

• Logistic regression showed higher odds of elevated total PSA and altered PSA ratio with increased 3-PBA levels, particularly in individuals with high eGFR.
• Linear regression revealed a significant positive correlation between urinary 3-PBA and PSA ratio in the low eGFR group.
• A marginally significant positive correlation was observed between urinary 3-PBA and total PSA in the low eGFR group.

Conclusions:

• Pyrethroid exposure is associated with increased total PSA levels or alterations in the PSA ratio.
• These findings suggest a potential link between pyrethroid exposure and adverse effects on the prostate gland.
• Kidney function may influence the relationship between pyrethroid exposure and prostate health indicators.