CHE hosted a discussion on the complex array of chemical contributors to thyroid function. Presenters discussed chemicals linked to thyroid function, upstream biological impacts to thyroid hormones during pregnancy that can lead to a variety of health problems later in life and the policy implications given all the complexity. In particular, speakers addressed perchlorate, which inhibits the uptake of iodide into the thyroid gland, an essential part of the process of making thyroid hormone. Small changes in maternal thyroid hormone are associated with significant decreases in IQ.
This call was moderated by Steve Heilig, Director of Public Health and Education at the San Francisco Medical Society and CHE.
Featured Speakers
- Tom Zoeller, Professor and Chair of Biology, University of Massachusetts
- Greg Brent, Professor of Medicine and Physiology, UCLA School of Medicine
- Tracey Woodruff, Director, Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment and Associate Professor, UCSF
- Craig Steinmaus, Public Health Medical Officer III, California Environmental Protection Agency and Assistant Adjunct Professor, University of California at Berkeley