Endocrine Disruptors: An Evaluation of Solvents Deicers and Jet Fuels

Recent publications have drawn public attention to the growing evidence that a number of synthetic and naturally-occurring chemicals may disrupt normal function of endocrine systems. The scientific debate regarding endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) centers around the insufficient data available to determine the ecological and human risks associated with environmental contaminants. This is partially due to the complex role of the endocrine system in regulating multiple physiological functions. Currently, the majority of EDC studies are focused on a few, well-known substances: DDT/DDE, dioxins and PCBs. Research fails to provide data on the majority of chemicals in use. The U.S. Air Force is placing emphasis on proactive reviews of its materials to preclude revelations which-may impact mission readiness. The project evaluated the health effects of chemicals commonly used by the Air Force for evidence of potential endocrine disruptor activity. The chemicals selected for review were compounds not previously evaluated for endocrine disrupting activity: organic solvents (trichloroethylene, trichloroethane, dichloroethane, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone and perchloroethylene), deicing and anti-icing agents (potassium acetate, sodium acetate, ethylene glycol,urea, propylene glycol, sodium formate and calcium magnesium acetate) and jet fuels and related hydrocarbons (toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, jet fuel and diesel).