ABSTRACT Introduction Bisphenols are ubiquitous endocrine disruptors suspected of interfering with several physiological functions. Their effects during the perinatal period are of particular concern due to the high vulnerability of this stage of development. Objective This study aimed to evaluate fetal exposure to bisphenols and to investigate possible associations between thyroid hormone levels and bisphenol concentrations. Materials and Methods A total of 154 mother–child pairs were included and umbilical cord blood samples were collected. Thyroid hormones (TSH, FT4, and FT3) and bisphenols (BPA, BPF, and BPS) were quantified in these samples. Relevant information about participants was obtained through a structured questionnaire. Results The prevalence of bisphenol detection in umbilical cord blood samples was 92.8% for BPA, 65.5% for BPS, and 57.8% for BPF. Mean concentrations in umbilical cord blood were 2.456, 0.646, and 0.660 ng/mL. Significant positive associations were observed between FT4 and the three bisphenols with β values of 0.740, 0.897, and 1.045, respectively. A significant positive association was also found between FT3 levels and BPA concentrations ( β = 0.119). Conclusion This study highlights the detectable exposure of Algerian women to bisphenols, as well as the association of these compounds with thyroid changes during the perinatal period, with potential consequences for fetal development.
Khelfi et al. (Mon,) studied this question.