Des, also known as Diethylstilbestrol, is a synthetic non-steroidal oestrogen and endocrine-disrupting chemical. It was prescribed to pregnant women in the mid-20th century to prevent miscarriage, despite lack of proven efficacy. Its impact on biological systems is extensive as it can interfere with normal endocrine functions, which are crucial for maintaining physiological homeostasis [2,3,4].

The deleterious effects of Des are far-reaching. It has been classified as carcinogenic to humans since 2000. Women who took Des during pregnancy, as well as their children and grandchildren, have been affected. In-utero exposure to Des has been associated with an increased risk of cancers and structural abnormalities of the genital tract and breast in the exposed offspring. For example, DES daughters have a higher risk of uterine structural abnormalities that can affect pregnancy. Epidemiological studies in humans have also shown that DES grandchildren are at a higher risk of preterm birth, cerebral palsy, hypospadias in grandsons, and oesophageal atresia or tracheo-oesophageal fistula [1,2,3,4].

In conclusion, Des, a chemical once used during pregnancy, has had long-lasting and multi-generational harmful effects. Epidemiological studies in humans have been crucial in revealing its role in various adverse health outcomes, including cancers and pregnancy-related complications across generations. Understanding these effects helps in comprehending the long-term impacts of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on human health and can potentially guide future preventive strategies.

References:

1. Zamora-León, Pilar. 2021. Are the Effects of DES Over? A Tragic Lesson from the Past. In International journal of environmental research and public health, 18, . doi:10.3390/ijerph181910309. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34639609/

2. . . Diethylstilbestrol (DES): also harms the third generation. In Prescrire international, 25, 294-298. doi:. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30758926/

3. Al Jishi, Taher, Sergi, Consolato. 2017. Current perspective of diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure in mothers and offspring. In Reproductive toxicology (Elmsford, N.Y.), 71, 71-77. doi:10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.04.009. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28461243/

4. Veurink, Marieke, Koster, Marlies, Berg, Lolkje T W de Jong-van den. . The history of DES, lessons to be learned. In Pharmacy world & science : PWS, 27, 139-43. doi:. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16096877/