Environmental and genetic contributors to hypospadias: a review of the epidemiologic evidence.

ABSTRACT: This review evaluates current knowledge related to trends in the prevalence of hypospadias, the association of hypospadias with endocrine-disrupting exposures, and the potential contribution of genetic susceptibility to its etiology. The review focuses on epidemiologic evidence. Increasing prevalence of hypospadias has been observed, but such increases tend to be localized to specific regions or time periods. Thus, generalized statements that hypospadias is increasing are unsupported. Owing to the limitations of study designs and inconsistent results, firm conclusions cannot be made regarding the association of endocrine-disrupting exposures with hypospadias. Studies with more rigorous study designs (e.g., larger and more detailed phenotypes) and exposure assessment that encompasses more b

SUBMITTER: Carmichael SL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3393839 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature