In Utero Exposure to Organic Pollutants and Lung Function in the Offspring

Abstract

Humans are exposed daily to thousands of chemicals present in many consumer products that can interfere with hormonal signalling systems. The prenatal period is critical because the developing lung is intrinsically subject to hormonal regulation. Alterations at this time may predispose to reduced lung function in later life. In this review, we summarise current knowledge about the role of prenatal exposure to organic pollutants on lung function in the offspring. We divide pollutants into persistent: organochlorine and perfluoroalkyl compounds, and non-persistent: bisphenols, parabens, triclosan, benzophenones, phthalates, and currently used pesticides. Eleven prospective cohort studies, mainly from Europe and the US, have been identified. Overall, the literature is scarce and inconsistent. The observed associations have identified small changes in lung function parameters. Main challenges for future studies include assessment of exposure to non-persistent pollutants and the study of multipollutant effects. In parallel, public health strategies should be implemented to reduce exposure to organic pollutants, particularly in pregnant women.