The first studies of this type indicate that benzophenone derivatives in sunscreen and other cosmetics may increase the risk of endometriosis, a serious gynecological disease, according to Environmetal Science & Technology.
Endometriosis is one of the most common chronic pathologies of the reproductive organs. It consists in the growth of the uterine mucosa, i.e. the endometrium, outside the cavity of this organ. Stray tissue undergoes changes during the menstrual cycle, which in turn causes severe pains during menstruation, but also during urination, defecation or sexual intercourse. The disease can also manifest itself as flatulence, constipation, diarrhea and fatigue.
From 38 to 50 percent cases of female infertility may be related to endometriosis. In Poland – according to specialists – there may be up to a million women with endometriosis – it occurs in 6-10 percent. women of childbearing age (i.e. between 15 and 50 years of age).
Kurunthachalam Kannan’s team (State University of New York at Albany) analyzed urine samples from 635 women who had been operated on for endometriosis. Scientists have found a link between the occurrence of endometriosis and high levels of the benzophenone derivative (2,4OH-BP) in the urine. Urine levels of this compound were higher in women in sunny California, and increased during the summer months, indicating that it may come from sun care products.
The link between 2,4OH-BP and endometriosis appears to be due to the estrogen-like action of this substance, which can pass through the skin into the blood in small amounts. It is known that endometriosis develops under the influence of estrogen. (PAP)