EFFECT OF EXPOSURE TO P,P’ DDE ON MALE HORMONE PROFILE IN MEXICAN FLOWER GROWERS OF STATE OF MEXICO AND MORELOS

Background and Aims: p,p´-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethene (p,p´-DDE) acts as an androgen receptor antagonist, (Kelce et al 1995), however the data regarding its hormonal effects in men are limited. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between serum levels of p, p’-DDE and reproductive hormone profile in male flower growers of Mexico. Methods: A longitudinal study was carried out in a population of men working in the production of flowers and ornamental plants in two Mexican states (Morelos and State of Mexico) during the periods July-October 2004 (rainy season) and December 2004-May 2005 (dry season). A questionnaire including information on their socioeconomic characteristics, tobacco and alcohol use, presence of chronic and acute diseases, occupational history and anthropometry was used and blood and urine samples were obtained. Serum levels of p, p’-DDE were analyzed by gas chromatography; FSH, LH, testosterone, estradiol, inhibin B and prolactin levels were measured by enzymatic ...