f you were to lose the function one of your special senses (vision, hearing, or equilibrium) which one would you choose to lose? Elaborate on your reasoning of your decision, how your life would change (for the better and/or worse) from day to day, and what things/items would you miss the most from the loss of this special sense? Also think about your future profession and job goals- would the loss of this special sense influence your abilities to perform your current or future job? Do you think it would impact your overall happiness in life? How would you overcome the loss of this special sense? Lastly, what advantages would there be with the loss of this specific special sense?

According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (2015), “Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that may interfere with the body’s endocrine system and produce adverse developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune effects in both humans and wildlife.” They can be found in your food/product packaging, food, toys, cosmetics and detergents. Research endocrine disruptors, how they disrupt the endocrine system, common products they are found in and the possible complications of them.
Are you surprised by the concept of endocrine disruptors? What are some endocrine disruptors that you are or have been exposed to possibly? Do you think they have had any effect on yours or your family’s development and/or health? With more and more chemicals that individuals are exposed to (including food products), do you think this a serious issue and concern for endocrine dysfunction? Why or why not?

Bisphenol A (BPA) ? is a chemical produced in large quantities for use primarily in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Related complications are: concern of the effects on the brain, behavior, and prostate gland in fetuses, infants, and children.

Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) ? is a high production volume chemical used in the manufacture of a wide variety of consumer food packaging, some children’s product, and some polyvinyl chloride medical devices. Related complications: May pose a risk to human development, especially critically ill male infants.

Endocrine receptors can

? Mimic or partly mimic naturally occurring hormones in the body like estrogens (the female sex hormone), androgens (the male sex hormone), and thyroid hormones, potentially producing overstimulation.

? Bind to a receptor within a cell and block the endogenous hormone from binding. The normal signal then fails to occur and the body fails to respond properly. Examples of chemicals that block or antagonize hormones are anti-estrogens and anti-androgens.

? Interfere or block the way natural hormones or their receptors are made or controlled.