Abstract:
BACKGROUND : The associations between prenatal exposure
to endocrine disruptive chemicals (EDCs) and fetal growth are
inconsistent, and few studies have considered small-for-gestational-
age (SGA) birth as an outcome. Our current study of
Scandinavian parous women aimed to address these inconsistencies
and gaps in the literature.
METHODS : This case–cohort study included 424 mother–
child pairs who participated in a prospective, multi-center
study of parous women in Norway (Trondheim and Bergen)
and Sweden (Uppsala). We used linear and logistic regression
with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to analyze the associations
between two perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and five
organochlorines (OCs) from early second trimester and indices
of fetal growth.
RESULTS : Among Swedish women, prenatal exposure to perfluorooctanoate
(PFOA), polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) 153
and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) were associated with higher
odds for SGA birth. We found stronger associations among
Swedish male offspring. In the Norwegian cohort, we found
no significant associations between EDC exposure and indices
of fetal growth.
CONCLUSIONS : Some populations may be more vulnerable
to EDCs, possibly due to differences in exposure levels, exposure
sources and/or modifiable lifestyle factors. Male offspring
may be more vulnerable to endocrine disruption.
