Many chemicals in the environment possess estrogenic, or endocrine-disruption features, similar to the synthetic hormone DES. Researchers speculate that those chemicals may contribute to an increase in reproductive problems and diseases in animals and humans.

The on-going study of DES and DES-exposed individuals continues to be an important part of research into environmental estrogens or endocrine disruptors. It informs scientists about the potential effects of estrogenic chemicals on human health and the environment.

The latent reproductive tract and malignant tumor development effects of in utero DES-exposure offer a sobering lesson. DES exposure provides a model for understanding the potentially multi-generational consequences to human health and reproduction caused by endocrine disruptors. It is hoped lessons learned in this area of research may lessen or prevent future harmful exposures.

DES Action works with many other organizations and institutions in seeking to bring health information about DES and endocrine disruptors to public policy decisions. For additional information about endocrine disruption, the study of DES in seeking to understand the health and reproductive consequences of estrogens in the environment, or how we as individuals can take action to ensure healthy future generations, please visit these links to other organizations or government institutions.

Center for Bioenvironmental Research at Tulane and Xavier Universities
www.cbr.tulane.edu

Collaborative on Health and the Environment
www.healthandenvironment.org

Environmental Health News
www.environmentalhealthnews.org

Our Stolen Future
www.ourstolenfuture.org

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Public Interest Partners www.niehs.nih.gov/partners/home.htm