Endocrine Disrupting Compounds in the Tropical Climate of Malaysia : Pollution, Effects, and Management Strategies

Wee, Sze Yee and Jongkar, Grinang (2024) Endocrine Disrupting Compounds in the Tropical Climate of Malaysia : Pollution, Effects, and Management Strategies. Exposure and Health. pp. 1-18. ISSN 2451-9766

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Abstract

Water pollution resulting from the presence of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) is an emerging environmental concern with implications for both human and ecosystem health. Exposure to EDCs has been associated with disruptions in immunity, metabolism, growth, hormonal regulation, reproduction, and behavior, leading to various health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and cancers. Despite these risks, the understanding and detection of EDCs in the environment remain limited, potentially underestimating their global prevalence. Challenges persist in developing reliable analytical methods for monitoring EDCs across different environmental compartments, compounded by resource constraints related to instrumentation, costs, and expertise. This review addresses the knowledge gap regarding EDC exposure and its impacts on environmental quality in Malaysia. While EDC investigation in Malaysia has primarily focused on states in Peninsular Malaysia, research in East Malaysia, also known as Malaysian Borneo, has been limited. This region, renowned for its rainforests, rivers, and diverse wildlife, and various socio-economic activities such as naturebased tourism, agro-forestry, and urbanization, highlights the need for increased research attention. Studies conducted in East Malaysia (Sarawak, Sabah, and Labuan) have predominantly focused on physicochemical characteristics (40.4%), minerals/nutrients (25.6%), and species diversity (11.2%). Given the reported anthropogenic sources of contaminants, changing climate patterns, and the potential environmental, societal, and economic impacts, it is crucial to revisit water pollution issues. Emphasizing the importance of strategizing the monitoring and management of EDCs through state and/ or federal initiatives is imperative to protect the environment and public health in this ecologically significant region

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