Maternal bisphenols exposure and thyroid function in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Environmental Health
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Controversial evidence exists on prenatal bisphenol (BP) exposure effects on childhood thyroid function.
• This study investigates the association between prenatal BP exposure and thyroid hormones (THs) in newborns and children, focusing on sex-specific and dose-dependent effects.

Approach:

• A systematic meta-analysis of 11 cohort studies (5,363 children) was conducted, searching major databases until February 2024.
• Assessed bisphenols included BPA, BPF, BPS, BPAF, and TCBPA; measured THs were TSH, TT3, TT4, FT3, and FT4.
• Methodological quality was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS).

Key Points:

• Prenatal bisphenol exposure was significantly associated with altered thyroid hormones in female offspring, including reduced TSH and increased TT3.
• High bisphenol concentrations (>1.5 ug/g creatinine) were linked to significantly reduced FT3 levels in children.
• Findings highlight sex-specific effects of prenatal bisphenol exposure on thyroid hormone regulation.

Conclusions:

• Prenatal bisphenol exposure is associated with thyroid hormone alterations in girls.
• Controlling bisphenol exposure during pregnancy is crucial for protecting child thyroid health.
• Further research into sex-dependent mechanisms and dose-response relationships is warranted.