Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and Biomaterials

Endocrine and metabolic dysfunctions may be related to environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which can alter hormone-related organs and are thus associated with different health problems. Medical biomaterials, devices and all implants must be biocompatible to reduce the risk of adverse effects. Biocompatibility has applications in a variety of biomedical fields, including orthopedic implants and devices, dental implants and materials, and cardiovascular devices. Although most medical biomaterials are rigorously tested for biocompatibility and safety, including toxicity and endocrine disruption, the risk may derive from known or suspected endocrine disruptors; the material is implanted or used for long time; or the material may break down or degrade into smaller, active compounds during the aging process. The article presents the insight into common environmental chemicals and theoretical concerns about the potential consequences of the long-term presence of artificial materials in the body. Future research directions in the field of biocompatibility should include developing a better understanding of the interactions between biomaterials, their molecular mechanisms and the endocrine system. Clinical experimental studies are needed to examine endocrine associations and ensure that the industry requires identification of products containing potentially harmful materials.