1
|
Lalla AT, Onyebuchi C, Jorgensen E, Clark N. Impact of lifestyle and dietary modifications for endometriosis development and symptom management. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2024; 36:247-254. [PMID: 38869435 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Management of endometriosis is often complex and poorly studied. Patients with endometriosis have interest in how their lifestyle may affect their diagnosis. Self-management and lifestyle changes are often used as adjunct therapy, but best practices are not concrete in treatment guidelines. RECENT FINDINGS Lifestyle impact on endometriosis and possible self-management treatment therapies are reviewed. Overall, there is a need for future studies in all topics. Data suggest a link between endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), particularly persistent EDCs, and endometriosis. More work is needed to isolate and quantify exposures and explore their connection to endometriosis in order to provide guidance for clinical practice recommendations. There is insufficient evidence to support a superior diet for management of endometriosis; however, the Mediterranean diet may have the most benefit without nutrition concerns. Exercise may be another tool to improve endometriosis symptoms, but once again data are limited and best type and frequency is not well studied. Best evidence supports body-mind practices such as yoga, although new evidence suggests benefit from a holistic combination of several types of exercises. SUMMARY Overall, data on lifestyle effects and associated therapies are limited. Future high-quality studies are needed to guide practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amber Trujillo Lalla
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Division of Minimally Invasive Gyne-cologic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tuli A, Suresh G, Halder N, Velpandian T. Analysis and remediation of phthalates in aquatic matrices: current perspectives. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:23408-23434. [PMID: 38456985 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32670-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are high production volume chemicals used extensively as plasticizers, to increase the flexibility of the main polymer. They are reported to leach into their surroundings from plastic products and are now a ubiquitous environmental contaminant. Phthalate levels have been determined in several environmental matrices, especially in water. These levels serve as an indicator of plasticizer abuse and plastic pollution, and also serve as a route of exposure to different species including humans. Reports published on effects of different PAEs on experimental models demonstrate their carcinogenic, teratogenic, reproductive, and endocrine disruptive effects. Therefore, regular monitoring and remediation of environmental water samples is essential to ascertain their hazard quotient and daily exposure levels. This review summarises the extraction and detection techniques available for phthalate analysis in water samples such as chromatography, biosensors, immunoassays, and spectroscopy. Current remediation strategies for phthalate removal such as adsorption, advanced oxidation, and microbial degradation have also been highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anannya Tuli
- High Precision Bio-Analytical Facility (DST-FIST Sponsored), Ocular Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Gayatri Suresh
- High Precision Bio-Analytical Facility (DST-FIST Sponsored), Ocular Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Nabanita Halder
- High Precision Bio-Analytical Facility (DST-FIST Sponsored), Ocular Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Thirumurthy Velpandian
- High Precision Bio-Analytical Facility (DST-FIST Sponsored), Ocular Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang L, Yang X. Association between exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and endometriosis: data from the NHANES 2001-2006. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1267124. [PMID: 38259796 PMCID: PMC10801278 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1267124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim To evaluate the association between urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) metabolites and the risk of endometriosis. Methods This cross-sectional study obtained data on women aged 20-54 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001-2006. The weighted multivariate logistic regression model was established to assess the association between the eight urinary PAH metabolites and the risk of endometriosis. In this multivariate analysis, the eight urinary PAH metabolites were adjusted with urinary creatinine, and were divided into three groups according to tertiles: Tertile 1, Tertile 2 and Tertile 3. To evaluate the overall association of mixed PAH metabolites with endometriosis, the Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) model was applied. Results Totally 1,291 women were included, of which 90 (6.97%) had endometriosis and 1,201 (93.03%) did not have endometriosis. After adjusting for age, race, smoking, age at menarche, hysterectomy, ovary removed, female hormone use, and menopause, compared with the Tertile 1 group, the Tertile 2 and Tertile 3 groups of all PAH metabolites demonstrated no significant risk of endometriosis. A positive tendency was found between mixed PAH metabolites and endometriosis when all the metabolites were at their 60th percentile levels or above compared with their median levels. When all the other metabolites were fixed at their median levels, 1-hydroxynaphthalene was positively correlated with endometriosis. Potential interactions existed between 1-hydroxynaphthalene and 2-hydroxynaphthalene and between 2-hydroxyfluorene and 3-hydroxyfluorene. Conclusion No significant association was found between individual PAH metabolites and endometriosis. A positive association existed between mixed PAH metabolites and the risk of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiaojun Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Abramiuk M, Mertowska P, Frankowska K, Świechowska-Starek P, Satora M, Polak G, Dymanowska-Dyjak I, Grywalska E. How Can Selected Dietary Ingredients Influence the Development and Progression of Endometriosis? Nutrients 2024; 16:154. [PMID: 38201982 PMCID: PMC10781184 DOI: 10.3390/nu16010154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic, hormone-dependent disease characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue in ectopic locations. Since the treatment options for this disease are still limited, and the cure rate is unsatisfactory, the search for ways to treat symptoms and modify the course of the disease is of key importance in improving the quality of life of patients with endometriosis. So far, the literature has shown that nutrition can influence endometriosis through hormonal modification and altering the inflammatory or oxidative response. Since the importance of nutrition in this disease is still a subject of scientific research, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge on the role of dietary modifications in endometriosis. Our review showed that nutrients with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, including most vitamins and several trace elements, may influence the pathogenesis of endometriosis and can be considered as the nutrients preventing the development of endometriosis. However, despite the many discoveries described in this review, further interdisciplinary research on this topic seems to be extremely important, as in the future, it may result in the development of personalized therapies supporting the treatment of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Abramiuk
- Independent Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Gynaecology and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 St., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (G.P.); (I.D.-D.)
| | - Paulina Mertowska
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a St., 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.M.); (E.G.)
| | - Karolina Frankowska
- 1st Chair and Department of Oncological Gynecology and Gynecology, Students’ Scientific Association, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 St., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (K.F.); (M.S.)
| | - Paulina Świechowska-Starek
- 1st Chair and Department of Oncological Gynaecology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 St., 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Małgorzata Satora
- 1st Chair and Department of Oncological Gynecology and Gynecology, Students’ Scientific Association, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 St., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (K.F.); (M.S.)
| | - Grzegorz Polak
- Independent Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Gynaecology and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 St., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (G.P.); (I.D.-D.)
| | - Izabela Dymanowska-Dyjak
- Independent Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Gynaecology and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 St., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (G.P.); (I.D.-D.)
| | - Ewelina Grywalska
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a St., 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.M.); (E.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ma J, Qin C, Hu X, Lin Z, Li Z, Gao Y. Health risks posed by environmental benzophenone-type ultraviolet filters (BP-UVFs): An investigation into the binding of BP-UVFs to trypsin and their adverse effects. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132231. [PMID: 37557051 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Benzophenone-type ultraviolet filters (BP-UVFs) are ubiquitous in the environment, and people frequently ingest them via food chain and drinking water. However, there is no clear information about whether BP-UVFs are detrimental to human health. Herein, experiments using multi-spectroscopy revealed typical BP-UVFs, i.e., benzophenone (BP), 2-hydroxybenzophenone (2-OHBP), 4-hydroxybenzophenone (4-OHBP), 2,2'-dihydroxybenzophenone (2,2'-OHBP), 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone (2,4-OHBP), 4,4'-dihydroxybenzophenone (4,4'-OHBP), 2,4,4'-trihydroxybenzophenone (2,4,4'-OHBP), 2,2',4,4'-tetraphydroxybenzophenone (2,2',4,4'-OHBP), 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone (2-OH-4-MeOBP) and 2,2'-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone (2,2'-OH-4-MeOBP), could bind to the active site of trypsin with different binding constants (2.69 × 104-1.07 × 106 L/mol), cause structural abnormalities and inhibit the enzymatic activity in varying degrees, indicating that the BP-UVFs ingestion poses a risk to human health. In contrast to previous research, this study systematically analysed the binding mechanism using an innovative combination of molecular docking and advanced quantum chemistry calculations, including molecular dynamics simulations, energy calculations, etc. The results revealed that most amino acids that make up trypsin have a greater positive electrostatic surface potential (ESP). Therefore, the greater the area and distribution of negative ESP in a particular BP-UVFs, the more easily it will bind to trypsin. This provides new insight into the binding of pollutants to proteins. This study suggests a need for better monitoring and control of environmental BP-UVFs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junchao Ma
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Chao Qin
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Xiaojie Hu
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Zhipeng Lin
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Zekai Li
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Yanzheng Gao
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ma J, Wang Z, Qin C, Wang T, Hu X, Ling W. Safety of benzophenone-type UV filters: A mini review focusing on carcinogenicity, reproductive and developmental toxicity. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 326:138455. [PMID: 36944403 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Consumer products containing benzophenone-type ultraviolet (UV) filters (BPs) have been widely accepted by the public, resulting in the widely existence of various BPs in the human body and environment. In recent years, more and more evidences show that BPs are endocrine disruptors. In view of the continuous exposure risk of BPs and their endocrine disrupting characteristics, the carcinogenicity of BPs and their effects on reproduction and development are of particular concern. However, due to the wide varieties of BPs and the scattered toxicity studies on BPs, people have a limited understanding on the safety of BPs. Therefore, this paper systematically reviews the carcinogenicity, reproductive and developmental toxicity of BPs in order to expand people's knowledge on the health risks of BPs and screen for more safe BPs. Although existing toxicological studies are insufficient, it can be determined that BPs have different potentials for carcinogenicity, and reproductive and developmental toxicity. Among those BPs, 2-hydroxyl-4-methoxyl benzophenone needs to be used with caution due to its adverse effects on cancer cell proliferation and migration, reproductive ability, sex differentiation, neurodevelopment, and so on. It is worth noting that functional group substitutions significantly affect the interaction between BPs and biomolecules such as DNA, cancer cells, and seminal fluid, resulting in different levels of toxicity. In short, it is very necessary to evaluate the carcinogenicity, reproductive and developmental toxicity of BPs, which is of great significance for establishing reasonable BPs content standards in cosmetics, water quality treatment standards for BPs, and so on.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junchao Ma
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zeming Wang
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Chao Qin
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaojie Hu
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Wanting Ling
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ahn C, Jeung EB. Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Disease Endpoints. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065342. [PMID: 36982431 PMCID: PMC10049097 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have significant impacts on biological systems, and have been shown to interfere with physiological systems, especially by disrupting the hormone balance. During the last few decades, EDCs have been shown to affect reproductive, neurological, and metabolic development and function and even stimulate tumor growth. EDC exposure during development can disrupt normal development patterns and alter susceptibility to disease. Many chemicals have endocrine-disrupting properties, including bisphenol A, organochlorines, polybrominated flame retardants, alkylphenols, and phthalates. These compounds have gradually been elucidated as risk factors for many diseases, such as reproductive, neural, and metabolic diseases and cancers. Endocrine disruption has been spread to wildlife and species that are connected to the food chains. Dietary uptake represents an important source of EDC exposure. Although EDCs represent a significant public health concern, the relationship and specific mechanism between EDCs and diseases remain unclear. This review focuses on the disease-EDC relationship and the disease endpoints associated with endocrine disruption for a better understanding of the relationship between EDCs-disease and elucidates the development of new prevention/treatment opportunities and screening methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Changhwan Ahn
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Eui-Bae Jeung
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-043-261-2397; Fax: +82-43-267-3150
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Anastasi E, Scaramuzzino S, Viscardi MF, Viggiani V, Piccioni MG, Cacciamani L, Merlino L, Angeloni A, Muzii L, Porpora MG. Efficacy of N-Acetylcysteine on Endometriosis-Related Pain, Size Reduction of Ovarian Endometriomas, and Fertility Outcomes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4686. [PMID: 36981595 PMCID: PMC10048621 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a chronic, estrogen-dependent, inflammatory disease, whose pivotal symptoms are dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Besides the usual medical treatments, recent evidence suggests there are potential benefits of oral N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on endometriotic lesions and pain. The primary objective of this prospective single-cohort study was to confirm the effectiveness of NAC in reducing endometriosis-related pain and the size of ovarian endometriomas. The secondary objective was to assess if NAC may play a role in improving fertility and reducing the Ca125 serum levels. METHODS Patients aged between 18-45 years old with a clinical/histological diagnosis of endometriosis and no current hormonal treatment or pregnancy were included in the study. All patients received quarterly oral NAC 600 mg, 3 tablets/day for 3 consecutive days of the week for 3 months. At baseline and after 3 months, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia and CPP were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale score (VAS), while the size of the endometriomas was estimated through a transvaginal ultrasound. Analgesics (NSAIDs) intake, the serum levels of Ca125 and the desire for pregnancy were also investigated. Finally, the pregnancy rate of patients with reproductive desire was evaluated. RESULTS One hundred and twenty patients were recruited. The intensity of dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia and CPP significantly improved (p < 0.0001). The use of NSAIDs (p = 0.001), the size of the endometriomas (p < 0.0001) and the serum levels of Ca125 (p < 0.0001) significantly decreased. Among the 52 patients with reproductive desire, 39 successfully achieved pregnancy within 6 months of starting therapy (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Oral NAC improves endometriosis-related pain and the size of endometriomas. Furthermore, it decreases Ca125 serum levels and may improve fertility in patients with endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Anastasi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Scaramuzzino
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Federica Viscardi
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Viggiani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Piccioni
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Cacciamani
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Merlino
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Angeloni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Ludovico Muzii
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Porpora
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Redmond R, Steel A, Wardle J, Adams J. Naturopathic knowledge and approaches to managing endometriosis: a cross-sectional survey of naturopaths with experience in endometriosis care. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 20:153-164. [PMID: 36087288 DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2022-0175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological disease with varying symptomatology and negative health outcomes. To ensure the best care for women with endometriosis, women require a multidisciplinary team approach. While some women consult with naturopaths for endometriosis, there has been little research on naturopathic knowledge and the naturopathic approach to endometriosis care. METHODS This cross-sectional survey recruited naturopaths with experience in menstrual disorders from the Practitioner Research and Collaboration Initiative (PRACI) a Practice-Based Research Network (PBRN). Data collection was conducted via an online self-administrated 62-item questionnaire. RESULTS Invitations were sent to 109 naturopaths who self-reported having experience in menstrual disorders, of whom 29 completed the survey (26.6% response rate). Naturopaths perceived endometriosis to be caused by inflammation (n=28, 96.5%) and risk factors associated with familial history (n=26, 89.6%). Many naturopaths aimed at reducing inflammation (n=27, 93.1%) and supporting gastrointestinal function (n=25, 86.2%) in their prescriptions. Naturopaths reported using various healthcare referrals to support women with endometriosis, primarily general practitioners (n=12, 41.3%), acupuncturists/Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners (n=11, 37.9%), and gynaecologists (n=9, 31%). Naturopaths reported receiving referrals from general practitioners (n=8, 27.5%) and psychologists (n=6, 20.6%). CONCLUSIONS Naturopathic knowledge and management of endometriosis targets known problematic areas of endometriosis that can have debilitating effects on women's quality of life. Naturopathic care has the potential to align with important health outcomes for women with endometriosis however, further attention is needed to assess the effectiveness and continue to establish a multidisciplinary approach involving naturopathic care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Redmond
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, East Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Amie Steel
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Jon Wardle
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, East Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Jon Adams
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kowalczyk A, Wrzecińska M, Czerniawska-Piątkowska E, Araújo JP, Cwynar P. Molecular consequences of the exposure to toxic substances for the endocrine system of females. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113730. [PMID: 36152416 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are common in the environment and in everyday products such as cosmetics, plastic food packaging, and medicines. These substances are toxic in small doses (even in the order of micrograms) and enter the body through the skin, digestive or respiratory system. Numerous studies confirm the negative impact of EDCs on living organisms. They disrupt endocrine functions, contributing to the development of neoplastic and neurological diseases, as well as problems with the circulatory system and reproduction. EDCs affect humans and animals by modulating epigenetic processes that can lead to disturbances in gene expression or failure and even death. They also affect steroid hormones by binding to their receptors as well as interfering with synthesis and secretion of hormones. Prenatal exposure may be related to the impact of EDCs on offspring, resulting in effects of these substances on the ovaries and leading to the reduction of fertility through disturbances in the function of steroid receptors or problems with steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. Current literature indicates the need to continue research on the effects of EDCs on the female reproductive system. The aim of this review was to identify the effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on the female reproductive system and their genetic effects based on recent literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Kowalczyk
- Department of Environmental Hygiene and Animal Welfare, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Chełmońskiego 38C, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Marcjanna Wrzecińska
- Department of Ruminant Science, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland.
| | - Ewa Czerniawska-Piątkowska
- Department of Ruminant Science, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland.
| | - José Pedro Araújo
- Mountain Research Centre (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Rua D. Mendo Afonso, 147, Refóios do Lima, 4990-706 Ponte de Lima, Portugal.
| | - Przemysław Cwynar
- Department of Environmental Hygiene and Animal Welfare, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Chełmońskiego 38C, Wrocław, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lipophilic phthalic acid esters impair human sperm acrosomal reaction through the likely inhibition of phospholipase A 2-signaling pathway. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 205:115249. [PMID: 36115423 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are recognized endocrine disruptors. Detection of PAEs in semen from idiopathic infertile males suggests possible direct mechanisms of sperm toxicity. In this study we aimed to correlate sperm function with semen levels of PAEs. Semen samples were obtained from 100 male patients attending the Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, (Italy), 22 of which having a recognized history of idiopathic infertility. Compared to fertile subjects, infertile patients showed reduced levels of acrosome reaction (AR), evaluated by CD46 staining upon progesterone (P4) triggering (p < 0.001). Subjects showing positive detection of PAEs in semen, evaluated by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), were significantly more represented in those reporting an history of infertility (13 out of 22), compared to fertile subjects (25 out of 78, P = 0.0266). In vitro sperm exposure to PAEs showed that lipophilic PAE representative Di-n-octyl phthalate (DNOP) had higher cell accumulation and inhibition of P4-induced AR than less lipophilic PAE representative Dibutyl phthalate (DBP). Computer-based binding analysis and fluorimetric inhibition assay, showed that both DNOP and DBP had similar Phospholipase-A2 (PLA2) inhibitory activity (respectively: 3.98 nM and 5.52 nM). However, only DNOP showed a significant inhibition of PLA2-mediated AR, triggered by A23187 calcium ionophore. Incubation with PLA2-related product arachidonic acid restored AR. Our data are suggestive of a novel mechanistic model of PAEs interference on sperm function, through the inhibition of PLA2-mediated signaling. According to this hypothesis, the inhibitory efficacy of the specific PAE is possibly linked to the corresponding cell accumulation.
Collapse
|
12
|
Rebecca R, Amie S, Jon W, Jon A. Perceived effectiveness and use of naturopathic treatments for endometriosis: A cross-sectional survey of Australian naturopaths experienced in endometriosis management. Eur J Integr Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2022.102172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
|