Statement

Study Shows Hypospadias Rates Not Increasing

ARLINGTON, VA (June 10, 2009) – The American Chemistry Council (ACC) today responded to a hypospadias study published in the May 2009 issue of Journal of Urology by Fisch et al. 

ACC Managing Director, Chris Bryant, issued the following statement:

“This study refutes claims that rates of hypospadias—a birth defect of the male urethra—are increasing in humans.  Instead, the study concludes that 'hypospadias rates have not changed.'  In fact, the study concludes that testicular dysgenesis syndrome—a urogenital abnormality—described in animal models may not be relevant in humans.  The authors state 'Those who support the hypothesis that phthalates and other alleged endocrine disruptors are potentially harmful have indicated the presence of the testicular dysgenesis syndrome, a triad of urogenital abnormalities that includes increased hypospadias, decreased sperm counts and increased testicular cancer.  However, current evidence suggests that human sperm counts are not declining, and in isolated areas where a decline has been noted no association has been found between these declines and any type of endocrine disruptor.'  The authors also conclude that '..the deleterious effects of endocrine disruptors on the rate of hypospadias (in animal models) may not be evident in humans.'  Instead, advanced maternal age continues to be the main risk factor for hypospadias."