The study seeks to elucidate the behaviors associated with exposure to endocrine disruptors among the general population of Saudi Arabia. This area of research holds significant importance as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have the potential to disrupt hormonal systems, leading to a variety of health concerns including metabolic, reproductive, and neurological issues, as well as hormone-related cancers. Given the prevalence of these chemicals in everyday products and their ability to accumulate in bodily tissues, it is imperative to comprehend the behaviours that may contribute to EDC exposure and evaluate the necessity for risk reduction interventions.
A validated, self-administered online questionnaire was utilised in the study to gather insights into the daily life behaviours associated with EDC exposure among Saudi citizens. A total of 563 participants partook in the study, with the majority falling within the 18-25 age group. The study’s results indicated that many participants exhibited moderate potential exposure to EDCs based on their reported daily habits, while a small minority showed a high potential risk. Notably, a substantial majority of the participants expressed an inclination towards adopting lifestyle changes to reduce their exposure to harmful substances.
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals can permeate the human body through ingestion, inhalation, and skin absorption, and they are present in a wide array of everyday products. It is imperative to recognise that exposure to these chemicals is inevitable, however, efforts to reduce exposure are worth pursuing, particularly at a personal level through lifestyle and behavioural modifications. Interventions and awareness programmes can play a pivotal role in addressing knowledge gaps and promoting the adoption of behaviours that mitigate exposure to EDCs.
The study also identified statistically significant associations between demographic characteristics and potential EDC exposure levels, such as age, gender, and area of residence. These findings offer valuable insights into the specific groups that may be at a heightened risk of EDC exposure based on their daily habits and lifestyle choices. Understanding these associations can aid in the development of targeted interventions and educational programmes aimed at reducing exposure and promoting healthier behaviours.
While the study provides valuable insights, it is important to acknowledge its limitations, such as the dependence on self-reported behaviours and the cross-sectional nature of the research. Nevertheless, the findings underscore the need for further research in this area to expand the list of behaviours and assess the direct correlation between awareness and behaviours.
In conclusion, the study underscores the diverse behavioural patterns linked to endocrine disruptor exposure among the general population in Saudi Arabia. The participants’ willingness to alter their habits presents an opportunity for the development of educational programmes and public health campaigns aimed at reducing exposure to harmful substances. These efforts are critical for minimising the potential long-term effects of EDCs and enhancing overall health outcomes.