The NOVA National School of Public Health (NOVA NSPH), together with several European partners, has just launched a multilingual platform designed to help citizens understand and reduce their daily exposure to chemicals that interfere with the hormonal system and affect human health, known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These chemicals may be present in the environment, consumer products and food, and the information available on this platform aims to support everyday choices that can help reduce exposure to these substances. The platform was developed within the framework of the European NEMESIS project, of which NOVA NSPH is a partner.

Despite the growing scientific evidence regarding their potential impacts on health, including their possible contribution to obesity, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic diseases, these chemicals remain largely unknown to the general public. Exposure is particularly concerning among specific population groups, such as children and pregnant women.

An online survey conducted as part of the European NEMESIS project, involving citizens from several European countries, including 364 participants from Portugal, highlights this concern. According to the results, 93% of participants consider it important to avoid exposure to endocrine disruptors, while 66% believe that the health problems associated with these substances may be very or extremely serious. Nevertheless, only 18% report feeling confident in their ability to avoid exposure, whereas 87% would like to receive more information on the topic.

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating the functioning of our bodies, including growth, metabolism, fertility, sleep, mood, and the way we store and use energy. EDCs can interfere with these processes, potentially affecting health throughout the lifespan.

“Most people are concerned, but do not know exactly what they can do to reduce exposure in their daily lives”, explains Cristina Godinho, Assistant Professor at NOVA NSPH. “There is a clear need for accessible, evidence-based information that is relevant and applicable to everyday contexts”, she adds.

To address this need, the NEMESIS consortium is launching the new multilingual platform, NEMESIS for You. The website was developed by NOVA NSPH, with the support of international partners from across Europe, and is available in English, Portuguese, Spanish, French, Dutch, Finnish, Greek, Swedish and German.

Designed for the general public, healthcare professionals and patient associations, the platform provides clear and accessible information on EDCs, as well as practical recommendations to help reduce exposure in everyday life.

Researchers also warn that certain population groups may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of these chemicals, especially pregnant women and young children. Some endocrine disruptors can cross the placenta, meaning that exposure during pregnancy may affect not only the mother’s health but also that of the developing child. During the first years of life, organs and hormonal systems are still developing, making children more sensitive to environmental exposures.

“The first years of life represent a particularly sensitive stage of human development. Exposure to chemical substances during critical periods such as pregnancy may have significant effects on health”, says Susana Viegas, Full Professor at NOVA NSPH.

Although it is impossible to completely eliminate exposure to chemicals present in the environment, experts emphasise that small everyday choices can help reduce contact with certain EDCs. Recommendations include choosing fresh foods over packaged products, regularly ventilating and vacuuming the home, reading product labels and opting for simpler alternatives with fewer ingredients and no fragrances, as well as properly recycling and disposing of waste and chemical products (for example, leftover paint or varnish should not be placed in household waste but should instead be taken to designated collection points).

NEMESIS is a project funded by the European Commission that began in January 2024 and brings together 13 partners from eight European countries. The project combines expertise in toxicology, medicine, biology, environmental health and public health to better understand how EDCs may influence metabolism and human health.

In the week marking World Environment Day, the project highlights an important message: protecting the environment also means protecting human health.

Follow the project on social media (@nemesisforyou.eu) to receive updates, access new resources and find practical information on environmental health and chemicals that affect the endocrine system.