The faroes statement: human health effects of developmental exposure to chemicals in our environment.

摘要

The periods of embryonic, foetal and infant development are remarkably susceptible to environmental hazards. Toxic exposures to chemical pollutants during these windows of increased susceptibility can cause disease and disability in infants, children and across the entire span of human life. Among the effects of toxic exposures recognized in the past have been spontaneous abortion, congenital malformations, lowered birthweight and other adverse effects. These outcomes may be readily apparent. However, even subtle changes caused by chemical exposures during early development may lead to important functional deficits and increased risks of disease later in life. The timing of exposure during early life has therefore become a crucial factor to be considered in toxicological assessments.During 20-24 May 2007, researchers in the fields of environmental health, environmental chemistry, developmental biology, toxicology, epidemiology, nutrition and paediatrics gathered at the International Conference on FetalProgramming and Developmental Toxicity, in Torshavn, Faroe Islands. The conference goal was to highlight new insights into the effects of prenatal and early postnatal exposure tochemical agents, and their sustained effects on the individual throughout the lifespan. The conference brought together researchers to focus on human data and the translation of laboratory results to elucidate the environmental risks to human health.