Nonylphenol exposure in married couples as measured by urinalysis

Objectives: Nonylphenol (NP) is an endocrine disrupter with wide distribution in the environment, particularly in foodstuffs and polluted water. Human exposure to NP has been of concern. This study evaluated the NP levels in couples with infertility, by using urinary 4-nonylphenol (4-NP) as a biomarker. Methods: Subjects were 53 married couples who were visiting the obstetrics and gynecology clinic. Of these, 41 men and 49 women provided urine samples. Each participant also completed a self-reported questionnaire to provide information about sociodemographic status and life style including diet. Results: Men were older, had a higher body mass index and were more likely to smoke, drink and use betel nut; however, the mean urinary NP levels were similar in men and women, 1.26 (SD 0.39) vs. 1.28 (SD 0.31) μg/g creatinine (p=.821; Pearson correlation r=.31, p=.012). Among all measured sociodemographic and life style factors, only those individuals who had consumed more healthy food had significantly higher urinary NP levels than did subjects who had consumed less or did not consume healthy food at all. (1.35 (SD 0.34) vs. 1.16 (SD 0.34)) μg/g creatinine (p=.012). Those who consumed more whole milk also had higher mean urinary NP levels, but this finding was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated that married couples had similar exposure to NP from the consumption of foodstuffs. Eating healthy food was associated with higher urinary nonylphenol levels. Other eating habits showed no significant correlation.