What does reduced testosterone correlate with in studies of phthalates or bisphenol A exposure?

Reduced testosterone levels have been linked to a shorter anogenital distance in studies exploring the endocrine-disrupting effects of phthalates and bisphenol A. Anogenital distance (AGD) is a measurement from the anus to the base of the genitals, which is considered a sensitive marker of prenatal androgen exposure. When testosterone levels are lower, it can lead to alterations in sexual development, which manifests as a shorter AGD.

Research has shown that exposure to substances like phthalates and bisphenol A, which can interfere with hormonal processes, can negatively impact testosterone production. Consequently, this disruption can result in a reduced AGD, which may be more pronounced in males due to their dependence on androgens during critical periods of development. This relationship is supported by various studies assessing the effects of these chemicals on both human and animal models, making it a well-documented correlation in the literature surrounding endocrine disruption.