This list of profiles represents only a portion of CHE Fertility Participants. These are the profiles that participants submitted when they first joined CHE Fertility. Click here for the full list of participants.

Please Note: To request contact information for participants or to update or add your profile, please email Julia Varshavsky at: Julia@HealthandEnvironment.org.

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Mary Lou Ballweg, President/Executive Director, Endometriosis Association

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Anything involving endometriosis and its related diseases, primarily inflammatory conditions, including allergies, eczema, and asthma; autoimmune diseases documented as risks for those with endo (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, Sjögren's syndrome, hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome); and cancers documented as risks for those with endo (ovarian and breast cancer, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, melanoma, thyroid cancer, and brain cancer).


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. Timing of exposure and subsequent health problems (particularly prenatal exposure which we are currently studying at our flagship research program at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine).

   2. Moving beyond the disease paradigm to the "big picture" - i.e., infertility is a symptom of larger problems.  Our current medical system addresses narrow subcomponents of health, which makes it hard for all of us to grasp the big picture and to achieve true health.


For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

The Endometriosis Association, founded in 1980, provides support to women and their families affected by endometriosis and related diseases worldwide; education about the disease for ourselves, the medical community, and the public; and research on the disease. Our popular publications include four books (one recently published in Spanish). Our most recent is Endometriosis: The Complete Reference for Taking Charge of Your Health, which addresses many of the "big picture" issues about endometriosis including the environmental and prevention components.

We maintain the world's largest research registry on endometriosis (currently collaborating on additional studies utilizing the registry with NIH); fund research worldwide; and work with scientists and medical experts worldwide to find the answers on cause, prevention, treatments, and a cure for endometriosis and related diseases. In 1992, our work led to breakthrough research showing that the pollutant dioxin can cause endometriosis (now replicated in numerous studies worldwide) and opened the door to our environmental involvement.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Myriam Beaulne, Biologist and Environmental Health Organizer, Clean Water Fund, Alliance for a Healthy Tomorrow, Lowell Center for Sustainable Production

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

    * Health outcomes related to environmental exposures to chemicals including fertility and pregnancy compromise
    * Particular interests in the effects of lead, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene, dioxins, hexavalent chromium, PBDEs, phthalates, pesticides (especially organophosphates and 2,4-D), mercury, perchlorate and other drinking water contaminants
    * Low dose effects and effects of multiple and combined exposures – from various sources including consumer products and drinking water


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. How to implement: Substitution Principle and Precautionary Principle

   2. For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions w/ regard to env/fertility?

   3. Community-based research with the aim of advancing proactive policy goals.


For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

The Alliance for a Healthy Tomorrow is a Massachusetts coalition of citizens, scientists, health professionals, workers, and educators seeking preventive action on toxic hazards. Our goal is to correct fundamental flaws in government policies that allow harm to our health and environment. We work to create proactive policies to prevent harm before the damage is done, and to choose the safest alternatives. We believe protection of our health must become the first priority of government policy. We support innovation to advance safer technologies, materials and solutions. Visit AHT on-line at: http://www.healthytomorrow.org.

As biologist, I am the primary science resource for AHT. I also coordinate the Science Advisory Council. A major part of my role is to make the latest information available in lay terms.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Kelly Brant, MPH, Ph.D.
Currently at University of Michigan, but in the process of applying for a postdoctoral position elsewhere


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

As a reproductive toxicologist, my main interests are identifying what environmental chemicals pose a risk to pregnant women or women trying to become pregnant and elucidating what are the underlying mechanisms by which environmental chemicals/pollutants adversely affect reproductive health.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. What are the mechanism(s) by which post-pubertal exposures to environmental pollutants lead to infertility?
   
   
2. How do in utero exposures to endocrine disrupters adversely affect reproductive tract development and/or reprogram the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of the developing fetus, leading to infertility?
   
   
3. How do we deem what levels of exposure to environmental chemicals/pollutants are “safe” for pregnant women? Can these levels be defined?
   

- posted 3 March 2006

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Mary Brune, Co-Founder, MOMS – Making Our Milk Safe


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

As a nursing mother, I am interested in identifying relationships between toxic chemicals and diminished fertility in breastfed children due to the levels of toxins detected in breast milk.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. How do in utero exposures to endocrine disrupters adversely affect reproductive tract development and/or reprogram the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of the developing fetus, leading to infertility?

   2. How do we deem what levels of exposure to environmental chemicals/pollutants are “safe” for pregnant women? Can these levels be defined?


For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

MOMS–Making Our Milk Safe—is a grassroots movement of mothers working to stop the chemical contamination of breast milk that threatens our children’s health, our bodies and the environment. Through vocal direct actions, market-based campaigns, and support of progressive legislation, MOMS is mobilizing nursing and expectant mothers in order transform the chemical industry and restore purity to nature’s perfect food.

- posted 9 March 2006

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Lin Kaatz Chary, Ph.D., MPH, Adjunct Professor, Labor Studies, Indiana University Northwest

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

impact of man-made toxins on fertility and fetal development, with focus on halogenated chemicals.  My main area of study in the past has been on PCBs, but recently I have been reading up on BRFs, especially deca-DBE


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. Impact of chemicals on MALE fertility, health of sperm, etc.

   2. More critical thinking on the importance of TIMING of exposure vs. exposure DOSE - and the failure of current risk assessment methodologies to be able to address this

   3. More attention to "quick hit" impacts, e.g., chemicals that aren't necessary persistent, but do their damage and are then metabolized out.  From an epidemiological perspective, these are virtually impossible to characterize, let alone produce viable studies.  I am definitely interested in the persistence issue, but there is an important spectrum of issues in addition which have received far less attention.

   4. Integrating the precautionary principle operationally into policy.

 
Other Notes/ Bio Clip:

At the present time I am essentially operating as a freelancer/consultant. This is possibly the worst position I can imagine from which to engage in these issues, but I do the best I can. I have close to 20 years experience doing environmental work at the grassroots, academic, Great Lakes, and international levels.  My main areas are writing and research on human health impacts of toxics, most recently working with Clean Production Action on a critique of the European Union's risk assessment of deca-DBE.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Diane N. Clapp, BSN, RN, Medical Information Director, National RESOLVE

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

fertility and pregnancy loss and the environment


For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

RESOLVE is the national infertility association, founded in 1974 to provide timely and compassionate support and information to individuals experiencing infertility and to increase awareness of infertility issues through advocacy and public policy. With over 40 chapters nationwide RESOLVE, is an excellent position to contact and educate the consumer on the issues of the environment and its role in reproductive problems. Our Family Building magazine, published 4 times a year has a circulation of over 9,000 people and is an excellent vehicle for education as well. RESOLVE receive one of the CHE mini grant this year.


Additional Notes/ Bio Clip:

Diane has worked with RESOLVE for the last 27 years and is the co-author of RESOLVING Infertility published by Harper Collins as well as numerous fact sheets for RESOLVE and journal articles.  She also has a private practice in the Boston area, Fertility Resources.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Audrey Marie Cummings, Ph.D., Biologist, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
 

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Implantation and early pregnancy.

- posted 4 December 2005

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Stephanie Dahl, MD, Clinical Fellow, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

My research involves the effects of PFOA (used to produce consumer products, including Teflon and Gore-Tex) on male fertility.  I am also very interested in the effects of environmental contaminants on female fertility/ early pregnancy loss.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. Do environmental contaminants accumulate in women and contribute to the decrease in fertility seen over the age of 35?

   2. How do we track environmental exposure and fertility parameters over time?


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Effects of PFOA and other industrial chemicals on male and female fertility and early pregnancy loss. The effects of environmental toxins on IVF cycles, e.g. pesticides, insecticides, etc.

Open to contacts for collegial comparing of notes.
I'm looking forward to becoming more involved with this organization.

- posted 28 April 2005 

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Sally Perreault Darney, Ph.D., (note: publishes as Sally D. Perreault), Acting Director, Reproductive Toxicology Division, US EPA National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, NC
 

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Reproductive toxicology: in vitro and rodent models:  human studies on environmental impacts on fertility, particularly alterations in semen quality including DNA and chromatin damage


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. How best to extrapolate toxicologic effects in rodent test species to human risk
   
   
2. How to monitor exposures relevant to human reproduction when exposures at any phase of the life cycle may be important?
   
   
3. How to assess reproductive risks associated with complex exposures occurring through multiple routes?
   

For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

There is potential to link databases on semen quality (and other indicators of fertility) across many groups in US and world-wide if we cooperate and apply modern approaches for bioinformatics.  Potential exists for better linkage between rodent (or other species) and human studies in both design and interpretation.  An ongoing challenge is to locate appropriate populations with defined exposures to chemicals/groups of interest.

 
- posted 28 April 2005

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Michael P. Diamond, M.D., Kamran S. Moghissi Professor and Associate Chair of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Director, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Wayne State University /  The Detroit Medical Center

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Infertility, Effects of environmental toxins on male factor infertility and endometriosis.


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

We have ongoing collaborations with State of Michigan laboratories for measurements of toxins, as well as hormonal and molecular biological laboratories. We would welcome additional collaborations and interactions.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Steffi Domike, Coordinator, Collaborative on Health and the Environment in Pennsylvania (CHE-Penn)

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

All is of interest; infertility issues seem to be a leading indicator of changes in the environment that captures public attention


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

Gender development and the impact of endocrine disruptors on these processes, in animals as well as humans.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Sandra Duffy, BS, JD, Founder, Mothers Against Mercury Amalgam, Board Member, Consumers for Dental Choice, Pro Bono Attorney for Coalition for Mercury-free Dentistry


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Health harm from all forms of mercury is my main area of interest (vapor, elemental, organic and inorganic). My specific interest related to this working group is how mercury in amalgam dental fillings (50% elemental mercury) affects the fertility of women with amalgams and how the additional exposure to mercury occupationally affects the fertility of women dentists, dental assistants and hygienists.
 

One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

Do women dentists, hygienists and dental assistants have a higher level of infertility than the general population? Do women with mercury amalgam dental fillings have a higher level of infertility than woman who have never had amalgam dental fillings? Does the safe removal of amalgam dental fillings by mercury-free dentists using proper protocols, and mercury detoxification protocols, improve pregnancy rates in women with amalgams who have been unable to conceive?
 

For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

The mission of Consumers For Dental Choice (national, tax exempt non-profit headquartered in Washington D.C.) is to abolish the use of mercury in dental fillings. It educates dental consumers and health professionals on the toxicity of mercury amalgam dental fillings (which WHO determined in 1991 was the primary source of mercury in the human body [Criteria #118]) and the economic conflict of interest of federal and state agencies, which regulate dentistry and dental materials. The American Dental Association supports the continued use of mercury amalgam, which it describes as “silver fillings” ADA dentists run the FDA Dental Devices section and control research dollars in the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Most other countries limit or ban the use of mercury amalgam for health and environmental reasons (dental offices are the number one source of mercury in waste treatment plants).

Coalition For Mercury Free Dentistry is the lobbying arm of Consumers for Dental Choice and seeks federal and state legislation to limit the use of mercury amalgam dental fillings and to require amalgam separators to capture 99% of waste mercury going down water drains of dental offices.

Mothers Against Mercury Amalgam is a network of local women who have undertaken some specific projects (protesting free dental care clinics that place mercury in poor children; educational tabling at women’s events [International Women's Day at local University; Susan J. Komen pre-race educational rally]).
 
I testified on behalf of Consumers for Dental Choice before a Congressional Committee investigating the use of mercury in dental fillings in May 2003. I write legislation for activists around the country; I do legal research and prepare “white papers” on legal topics related to our cause; I do legal research for lawsuits that have been filed around the country; I successfully enlisted the aid of the ACLU in three states to challenge “gag rules” by state dental boards which prohibited dentists from giving warnings to patients about the risks of mercury in dental fillings.


Other Notes/ Bio Clip:

I am a lawyer with a local municipal government (20 years). I have been a health advocate for many family members and friends with serious health issues (mostly cancer and neurological diseases) for 15 years. As the mother of five and the grandmother of 7 I am very concerned about all the toxic exposures we are experiencing and explosion in chronic disease. Because of my advocacy work I know many women in the dental profession who are devastated by their infertility, but the ADA denies that mercury exposure from dental fillings has any adverse affects on the human body. Dental personnel are additionally exposed occupationally. There are foreign studies, which indicate there may be greater infertility among women dental personnel, but the NIDCR will not fund any study, which may conclude that amalgam should not be used as a restorative material.

- posted 9 May 2005

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Susan M. Duty, MSN, APRN-BC, Sc.D (occ/env epi), Assistant Professor of Nursing, Simmons College, Visiting Scholar, Harvard School of Public Health, Department of Nursing, School for Health Studies
 
Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

    * Reproductive epidemiology
    * environmental exposure to phthalates and male reproductive health
    * characterizing occupational exposure to phthalates


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. Studying the effects of mixtures of environmental chemicals on reproductive outcomes

   2. Exploring mechanism of action of phthalates in regards to human reproductive endpoints


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

toxicology, biostats, epidemiology, nursing, andrology, gynecology

- posted 28 April 2005 

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Thea M. Edwards, Ph.D.,
Post-doctoral Associate, Environmental Health Sciences


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Fetal origins of adult disease; health effects of in utero exposures




One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. Herbicides are the most widely used class of pesticides. Of the herbicides, glyphosate and its associated surfactants are widely used in aquatic, residential, and community settings, but their safety with respect to low-dose/sublethal outcomes in humans is not known. A review of what we do know about glyphosate and its surfactants would be hugely helpful in conjunction with careful studies to assess their safety.
   
   
2. In Florida, and occasionally elsewhere in the nation, widespread insecticidal spray applications are used for mosquito control. Spray applications are determined based only on mosquito abundance and number of West Nile infections among indicator species (as few as one incident will prompt spraying). Currently no balancing consideration is given to the health consequences of spray exposure with regard to pregnant women or susceptible populations. While the data may be sparse for some chemicals, it is imperative that the public and decision makers be educated regarding the risks associated with both spraying and not spraying. Currently, only the risk associated with not spraying is addressed.
   

For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?
I
n my current position, I mine the published literature for connections between environmental exposures, changes in gene regulation, and human 
disease. I enjoy collaboration. My background is in endocrine disruption and ecology, working on comparative species in the field. Now, I wish to 
broaden my understanding of the genomics of endocrine disruption, as I think genomics will explain some of the enigmas observed in more 
classical endocrine disruption studies.


For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

I work with John Peterson Myers at Environmental Health Sciences. As mentioned above, I am currently mining the published literature for connections between environmental exposures, changes in gene regulation, and human disease. In addition, we will develop materials to help the 
public audience appreciate how environmental factors change gene regulation, and what that means for disease susceptibility.

 
- posted 4 December 2005

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Tina Eshaghpour, Program Officer, The Women's Foundation of California

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Broadening the frame around environmental concerns, looking for intersections and areas of common interest between different constituencies, particularly linking reproductive rights and women's health.  Particular interest in media and policy advocacy.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

Much of the research I'm aware of focuses on impact of toxins on male infants (hypospadia, reduced sperm count, changes to reproductive track). I would be interested in learning what we know about impacts on the girl child and how that plays out over the course of her lifetime.


For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

Since our inception in 1979, the Women’s Foundation of California is committed to promoting and protecting the human rights of women and girls in the political, social, cultural, civil and economic arenas. The Foundation supports projects designed for women and girls to improve environmental conditions where they live, work and play. We seek to reverse the disproportionate impact of environmental degradation on women. We will consider funding projects that encourage more active community participation by women and girls in environmental decision making, that promote policies that bring women’s voices to the decision-making tables, and/or seek to reduce the disproportionate impact of toxic chemicals on women’s and girls’ lives.  In addition to grantmaking and convenings, the Foundation has also published a report examining the nexus of gender, environment and health (available at: www.womensfoundca.org/publications).

- posted 28 April 2005

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Laura Fenster, Ph.D., Epidemiologist, California Department of Health Services, Occupational Health Branch

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

    * Reproductive health outcomes including semen quality related to chemical exposures
    * Exposure to Endocrine Disruptors in utero and developmental outcomes of children
    * Exposure to endocrine disruptors and time to conception
    * Pesticides and Organochlorines
    * PBDEs, and Perchlorate


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. The role of in utero exposures in health outcomes including neurodevelopment and obesity

   2. The importance of occupational and environmental advocacy groups working together

   3. The importance of suggesting alternative safer chemicals that can industries can substitute for toxicants


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Toxicologists, endocrinologists, epidemiology, epigenetics


Additional Notes/ Bio Clip:

Dr. Laura Fenster is a reproductive epidemiologist in the Occupational Health Branch at the California Department of Health Services (CDHS) where she has worked since completing her Ph.D. in Epidemiology at the University of California at Berkeley. She is currently the Principal Investigator at the CDHS for the NIOSH funded Endocrine Disruptors and Neurodevelopment Outcomes grant. The purpose of that research is to determine whether in utero exposure to organochlorine pesticides or to non-persistent pesticides are associated with neurodevelopment and to identify population-level correlates of exposure to these chemicals.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Warren Foster, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Director, Reproductive Biology Division, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, McMaster University

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Endometriosis, Infertility, Dioxins, PBDE, and perchlorate


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. Does developmental exposure set the stage for reproductive disorders in adulthood?

   2. What mechanism(s) are involved?

   3. What are the dose response characteristics of the association in no.1?


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Epigenetics, Analytical chemistry, Epidemiology

- posted 28 April 2005

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Anne Raub Greenlee, MS, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Oregon Health and Science University, School of Nursing; Assistant Scientist, Center for Research on Occupational and Environmental Toxicology


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Low-dose pesticide effects on fertility and preimplantation development.  Evidence-based interventions.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. Gene x environment interactions and fertility risks
   
   
2. Aging effects on gamete quality; mitochondrial respiration and oocyte health.
   
   
3. Biomarkers of exposure and reproductive health risks
   

For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

1. pesticide effects on mitochondrial function
   
   
2. embryonic stem cells as a model of developmental toxicity
   
   
3. oxidative stress and role in fertility competence
   

Other Notes/ Bio Clip:
In 2004, moved to OHSU from Marshfield Clinic Research Foundation to develop research program in newly opened biotechnology laboratories in OHSU School of Nursing.  The move has provided opportunity to continue projects to determine reproductive risks associated with rural occupational and residential exposures. 

- posted 4 December 2005 

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Elizabeth A Guillette, Ph.D. (Buzzy), Assistant Research Scientist in Anthropology, Department of Anthropology, University of Florida

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

    * Timing of the onset of puberty.
    * Alterations in breast development.
    * Delayed but desired pregnancy and related difficulties.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

The impact of parental contaminant exposure on the sexual development of their offspring


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Very open to contacts from any field, especially broad-based medicine, psychology and physiologists but not limited to these areas.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Gayle Haberman, Health Planner, Los Angeles County Department of Health Services--Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Programs


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

The impact of environmental toxins on birth outcomes and breast milk/ breast feeding.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

At this point, I'd simply like to learn what the critical issues are.


For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

Our mission is to promote the wellbeing of women, infants and children in Los Angeles County, California.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Russ Hauser M.D., Sc.D., MPH, Associate Professor of Occupational Health, Harvard School of Public Health

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

My primary interest is in the relationship between fertility and endocrine disrupting chemicals, such as phthalates, pesticides and chlorinated compounds. Secondary interest includes the relationship between these chemicals and pubertal development.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

Are environmental levels of chemicals associated with shifts in fertility at the population level? Is the tempo of puberty related to environmental chemicals?


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Epidemiology, toxicology and wildlife studies all interest me. My specific area of expertise is in epidemiology. I am open to comparing notes and ideas.


Additional Notes/ Bio Clip:

Russ Hauser is an Associate Professor in the department of Environmental Health at the Harvard school of Public Health. He obtained his M.D. from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and his Sc.D. from the Harvard School of Public Health. His research interests are in the area of environmental reproductive and developmental epidemiology. He is currently conducting an NIEHS funded study on the relationship between semen quality and environmental exposure to chemicals that include chlorinated compounds, pesticides and phthalates. Endpoints of interest include the traditional semen parameters, as well as sperm DNA damage and alterations in reproductive hormones. He is also conducting a study on children in Chapaevsk, Russia where he is investigating the relationship of exposure to dioxins and dioxin-like compounds with growth and pubertal development. He plans to follow these children to adulthood and assess semen quality.

Dr. Hauser has served on committees for two National Academy of Sciences, Institute of Medicine reports on the Gulf War and Health. He has also served as a reviewer for two NAS update reports on Veterans and Agent Orange.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Amanda Hawes, J.D., Cal-COSH (Committee on Occupational Safety and Health)

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

workplace toxic exposures that compromise fertility


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. tightening workplace exposure limits for reproductive toxicants to make them as protective as environmental limits for these same toxicants. (currently the disparities between workplace and environmental exposure limits for the same toxin are typically by orders of magnitude)

   2. developing accurate and adequate data on nature and extent of workplace toxic exposures that can compromise fertility

    
For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

Mission of Cal-COSH To promote occupational safety and health in the workplace and minimize  toxic hazards in the community through public education, empowerment, advocacy, training and technical assistance.


Additional Notes/ Bio Clip:

Amanda Hawes is a partner in the San Jose law firm of Alexander, Hawes & Audet where her legal specialty is cancer and birth defects claims for chemically - exposed workers and their children. A 1968 Harvard Law School graduate, Ms. Hawes was a legal services attorney for nine years, first  in the law reform unit of  San Francisco Neighborhood Legal Assistance and then the Legal Aid Society of Alameda County, where her health and safety legal advocacy began on behalf of women and minority workers in the canning industry.  As the canneries closed and her clients became electronics workers she turned to the hazards of the so-called "clean industry" and has become nationally recognized for her health and safety advocacy for semiconductor workers and their families. She is a co-founder of SCCOSH, Santa Clara Center for Occupational Safety and Health, serving on the Board from 1977-1992 and 1996-2003 and as Executive Director 1992-1996. She is a founder and Board member of Cal-COSH.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Jerrold J. Heindel, Ph.D., Scientific Program Administrator, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, DHHS

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

All aspects of gene-environment interactions in reproduction.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. Are humans exposed to concentrations of environmental agents that are causing or contributing to disease/dysfunction?

   2. What are the critical windows of sensitivity to environmental agents in humans?

   3. How can we develop improved biomarkers of exposure and toxicity ?


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Non researcher, but interested in the general area of the role of environmental exposure and all reproductive diseases/dysfunctions with the goal of stimulating research to understand the role of environmental exposures in disease/dysfunctions that will lead to interventions and prevention.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Laura Hewitson, Ph.D., Pittsburgh Development Center and Associate Professor, Departments OB/GYN and Reproductive Sciences; and Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh
 
Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Interested in the effects of heavy metal exposure, particularly mercury, on reproductive and immunologic function using a variety of animal models. Particularly interested in nutrition and heavy metal toxicity. Current projects include:  1) Effects of methyl mercury on mouse embryo development in vitro, and the protective effects of zinc and EDTA.  2) Effects of low zinc diet and low level in vivo MeHg exposure in mice during gestation and/or post-birth on the development, immune function and reproductive capacity of offspring.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Patricia Hunt, Ph.D., Meyer Distinguished Professor, School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Gamete production, sex determination


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. The potential impact of fetal exposures on reproductive lifespan in the female.

   2. The potential impact of fetal, neonatal or adult exposures on the genetic quality of gametes and embryos.


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Approaches to assessing reproductive effects in humans.

- posted 28 April 2005

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Sarah Janssen, M.D., Ph.D., MPH, Fellow, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of California, San Francisco

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

My Ph.D. research was in physiology, with an emphasis in male reproduction. I have done research on the physiological (natural) role of estrogen in the male reproductive tract and have an ongoing interest in endocrine disruption.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. multi-generational effects

   2. gene-environment interactions


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

I don't have any of my own research projects, currently, but I hope to do a small reproductive epidemiology study as a part of my fellowship next year. Open to comparing notes with colleagues.

- posted 28 April 2005 

______________________________________________________________

Avenel Joseph, Graduate Student, University of Illinois/Urbana Champaign
 
Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology. Especially in regards to the effects that endocrine disruptors have on male reproductive development.

 
One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. What effects do environmental contaminants have on sexual and gender development in the human population?
   
   
2. How does the combination of chemicals that we are exposed to translate into disease or disfunction?
   
   
3. How can we set up better ways to translate rodent research into human policy?
   

- posted 26 February 2006 

______________________________________________________________

Farla Kaufman, Ph.D., Research Scientist - Epidemiologist, Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California EPA
 
Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Reproductive epidemiology - including the effects of exposure to environmental contaminants on male and female fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
          

One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. Cumulative and synergistic effects of exposure to multiple environmental chemicals and the development of methodology to study these issues.
   
   
2. Gene-environment interactions.
   
   
3. Effects of low dose exposures
   

For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Reproductive and nutritional epidemiology, toxicology

______________________________________________________________

Dr. Narges Khanjani, Monash University, Australia

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Pesticides and reproductive outcomes

One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. How should mothers be monitored for environmental contaminants?
   
   
2. What guidelines should be followed for minimum exposure of populations to chemicals?
   
   
3. How and with what frequency should the soil and water be monitored for these chemicals?
   

For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility? 

Yes, I welcome collaboration in related issues. I have a few published papers about pesticides and reproductive outcomes on Pubmed.
 

For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

Currently I am a PhD student at the Centre for Occupational & Environmental Health, at Monash University. Our unit deals with research about a wide range of Occp. and Environ. Exposures and Human Health.
 

- posted 10 July 2006 

______________________________________________________________

 
Michael Lerner, Ph.D., President, Commonweal, Co-Founder, Collaborative on Health and the Environment

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

All health outcomes related to environmental health, including fertility and pregnancy compromise.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. I agree with Mary Lou Ballweg of the Endometriosis Association that infertility and pregnancy compromise should be positioned (as EA has positioned endometriosis) as a key set of "indicator" conditions in the broader context of assessing the effects of environmental contaminants and related environmental factors on human health.

   2. Since male fertility is far easier to assess than female fertility, we should sustain a high level of interest in the important work that Shanna Swan and others are doing in this arena, while deepening our understanding of the more complex science issues of female infertility and pregnancy compromise.

   3. The suggestion of developing a Wingspread Statement on our understanding of the science on infertility and pregnancy compromise seems a critically valuable step to me.


For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

Commonweal is a health and environmental research institute in Bolinas, California that provides the administrative services for the Collaborative on Health and the Environment (www.commonweal.org).

______________________________________________________________


Lin Li, Sc.D., Senior Program Officer at Global Toxics Program, World Wildlife Fund

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Pollutants or toxics chemicals and their effects on fertility, fetuses and development


For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

WWF's mission is the conservation of nature. Using the best available scientific knowledge and advancing that knowledge where we can, we work to preserve the diversity and abundance of life on Earth and the health of ecological systems by:

    * protecting natural areas and wild populations of plants and animals, including endangered species;
    * promoting sustainable approaches to the use of renewable natural resources; and
    * promoting more efficient use of resources and energy and the maximum reduction of pollution.

______________________________________________________________


Michele Marcus, MPH, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Epidemiology and Environmental and Occupational Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Pubertal development, menstrual function, fertility/time to pregnancy, early pregnancy loss, clinical pregnancy outcomes, menopause.
 

One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

Pubertal development may be a sensitive indicator of exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals in utero and in infancy. It may also be a critical period of development of the reproductive system that is sensitive to exposures to endocrine disrupting chemicals.


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Yes. Open to any disciplines.

- posted 28 April 2005

______________________________________________________________


Susan West Marmagas, MPH, Director of Health Programs, Collaborative on Health and the Environment

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

    * Educating health professionals about the scientific links between environmental exposure and infertility
    * Elevating the involvement of the reproductive health professional community in advocacy efforts on environmental health policy
    * More generally, the impact of environmental exposure on reproductive health, and outcomes in children


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. How can we develop “translational” educational pieces for policy makers about the relevance on infertility to environmental policy decisions?

   2. How hard will it be to engage individuals/couples grappling with their own infertility (and the multitude of decisions and emotional roller coasters) in our broader work of scientific research and environmental policy advocacy on the connections between infertility and environmental exposure?

   3. How can we influence federal or state tracking efforts to include the gathering of information to determine infertility trends in the US?  For example, can we influence what gets tracked on NHANES (the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey)?  After our last call, I looked up what is tracked on NHANES and I see that they measure FSH levels.  Might this be a possible entry point?

- posted 1 November 2005

______________________________________________________________

 
Pete Myers (John Peterson Myers), Ph.D., CEO, Environmental Health Sciences, Board Member, Jenifer Altman Foundation, Board Chair, National Environmental Trust, Board Member, Public Education Center

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Impact of contaminants on development of the reproductive system and subsequent consequences for fertility; endocrine disruption

 
One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

   1. Tracking: establishing spatial and temporal trends in infertility

   2. Low dose issues:  evidence is mounting that low doses of some biologically active compounds like bisphenol A alter expression of genes involved in a wide range of developmental control processes.  How/when do these results reach sufficient weight to affect regulatory standards?

   3. Epidemiology: As currently practiced, this is an exceedingly blunt instrument that for the most part does not reflect findings in the in vivo and in vitro literature on exposure to contaminants. Yet increasingly, political pressure requires that human impacts be demonstrated directly. What new tools can be developed for epidemiology that build directly on signals out of animal and cellular experimentation?

 
For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

EHS works with scientists and journalists to increase the quality and amount of coverage of research on links between environment and health. We also publish a daily aggregation of links to stories in the world press about environment and health, www.EnvironmentalHealthNews.org, and two other relevant websites:  www.HealthandEnvironment.org and www.OurStolenFuture.org.
 

Additional Notes/ Bio Clip:

Co-author, along with Theo Colborn and Dianne Dumanoski, of Our Stolen Future, a book about endocrine disruption. Amateur kayaker. Birder while running.

______________________________________________________________

 
Rhoda Nussbaum, MD, Attending physician, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Raising the consciousness of organized medicine regarding the impact of environmental toxins on reproduction


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

DNA


Other Notes/ Bio Clip:

In addition to the practice of Obstetrics and Gynecology and training residents, I have held several policy positions in Kaiser Permanente, Northern California. Most recently, I founded Women's Health - Kaiser Permanente. In that role I educated stakeholders from within and outside the organization about the emerging issues in Women's Health and gender specific medicine.  I feel a similar need for education and increased awareness by stakeholders within organized medicine to the emerging science regarding the impact of environment on health.
 

______________________________________________________________

Gail S. Prins, Ph.D., Professor of Physiology, Dept of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Perinatal estrogenic exposures/ effects on male reproductive tract with special emphasis on prostate disease


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. Low-dose exposures; Do they really have adverse effects and if so, what are they?
   
   
2. Fetal basis of adult disease: Do fetal/perinatal environmental exposures affect prostate cancer risk?
   

______________________________________________________________ 

Becky Sander, Pediatric Physical Therapist, Certified Instructor of Infant Massage (CIIM), Clackamas Education Service District, Early Childhood Special Education/ Early Intervention


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

My husband and I have been trying to get pregnant for four years.  All tests have been "normal".  We are young, active and healthy, so having a diagnosis of "unexplained infertility" is hard to understand.  I also work with children from birth to age 5, many of whom have rare diagnosis or no diagnosis (but profound developmental delay).


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. impact of environmental toxins on female and male reproductive health and ways to decrease the risk of infertility.
   
   
2. does exposure to environmental toxins in utero cause developmental delays?
   

- posted 28 April 2005 

______________________________________________________________



Rhonda Schlangen, M.A., Senior Evaluation Manager, Planned Parenthood Global Partners, Planned Parenthood Federation of America


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

• Educating the reproductive health/rights community about the link with environmental toxins and overall health of the natural environment
• Positioning the issue within a human rights – including reproductive rights – framework.
• Engaging the reproductive health/rights community in environmental health policy and advocacy.
• Discussion of ways to reach clients at service delivery points with sound, tangible and practical information related to environmental toxins and reproductive health.
  

For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

As the oldest and larger provider of reproductive health services in the United States, the vision of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) centers on enabling individuals and couples choose freely and responsibly whether and when to become parents. Through Planned Parenthood Global Partners, part of PPFA’s International Division, we have been discussing how environmental impacts affect the ability of people around the world to make those choices.

- posted 28 April 2005  

______________________________________________________________

Beth Schriock, M.D., Pacific Fertility Center, San Francisco


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Environmental toxins and infertility, recurrent miscarriage, birth defects and reproductive cancers


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

An issue that has not been adequately dealt with is the impact of radioactive fallout from the nuclear testing of the‘50s and 60’s on cancer rates in the US and worldwide.  Studies have been done looking at thyroid cancer but more is needed especially in view of the current administration’s plans for development of new nuclear weapons.  This is a hot topic in the state of Idaho right now.

- posted 28 April 2005  

______________________________________________________________

Sherry G. Selevan, Ph.D., Reproductive Epidemiologist, Formerly with the National Center for Environmental Assessment/ORD, US Environmental Protection Agency


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

A variety of environmental exposures and fertility, puberty, and developmental and later life outcomes.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. Environmental exposures and  fertility, semen measures,  pregnancy outcome, human milk/lactation, puberty, other reproductive and developmental endpoints.
   
   
2. Critical windows of exposure; how alterations in timing of exposure, and its magnitude, can alter exposure-endpoint relationships.
   
   
3. The use of these data in risk assessment.
   

For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Yes, open to contacts for discussions or collaborations in the issues listed above.


- posted 05 June 2005 

______________________________________________________________

Lois J. Shapiro-Canter, J.D., President and CEO Saratoga Foundation for Women WorldWide, Inc.
 

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Our Women's Environmental Health Program studies the connection between cancer and other illnesses and environmental pollutants, including PCBs, organochlorides and other dangerous chemicals.  Our Pediatric Environmental Health Project exposes the connection between childhood illnesses and environmental toxins.  We work toward the elimination of dangerous chemicals that have been linked to cancers and other illnesses, as well as infertility and birth defects, and educate communities and children about the risk of exposure to these substances.
 
In addition, our Health and Genetically Engineered Food Project, which is part of our Biotechnology Program, studies food labeling, allergic reactions from foreign proteins, viruses and bacteria gene-spliced into everyday foods.  It also examines recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH) injected into cows and its link to breast, colon and prostate cancer.  This project also scrutinizes the contamination of organic crops by genetically-engineered agriculture, as well as food safety standards, ecological effects, food slander laws, soil ecology and intellectual life patents.  We believe that genetically engineered food may have serious consequences for women's health, as well as men and children.
 

One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

Support Laura Fenster's proposals:

1. occupational and environmental advocacy groups' collaborate;
2. suggest alternative safer chemicals that industries can substitute for toxicants.
   

 
For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

The Saratoga Foundation for Women WorldWide, Inc. is an international, women's human rights organization that works in consultative status with the United Nations to advance human rights and improve environmental health for women and girls of all ages and ethnic backgrounds.  Our goal is to educate and empower a new generation of leaders who will progress human rights and environmental health for women regionally, nationally and globally.
 
We operate a local education program (Next Generation Earth Care) for children providing information about the environment and the challenges it faces.  We inform tomorrow's leaders about their impact on the environment today by teaching elementary and high school students environmental health of the planet, including recycling, health risks from pesticides, energy conservation and pollution, acid rain, PCBs, global warming, genetically engineered food and fast food.
 
We are launching an Environmental Health in Countries Around the World Project to obtain volunteers from around the globe who will research and write papers on environmental health issues from a woman's  and child's perspective and health-related impact. This project is in the development stage.  Volunteers access our project description via the United Nations OnLine Volunteering site. We are in contact with over a hundred people in numerous countries who have written papers on women's and girls' lives in various countries as well as other issues.  These countries include Brazil, India, Pakistan, China, African countries, Europe, UK and more.
 
In addition, because the Saratoga Foundation for Women WorldWide, Inc. is an ngo (nongovernmental organization) with the United Nations, we are developing a plan as to how we can promote environmental health issues via advocacy and education.
 

Additional Notes/ Bio Clip:

Lois J. Shapiro-Canter, J.D. is the President, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of the Saratoga Foundation for Women WorldWide, Inc.  She has been a leader in the fields of economic, environmental and civil justice for more than two decades. She has worked with government officials and community activists to implement progressive policies that improve the lives of women, children and men.  Her experience as a senior legislative analyst, a municipal advisor, an assistant district attorney, educator and statewide women's civil rights leader allows her to bring multifaceted talents to the world of global reform.
 
Lois has operated a law practice in the New York State Capital District area since 1987.  She is a 1985 graduate of the Northeastern University School of Law and received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from the State University of New York at Albany.  Admitted to practice in state and federal courts, she is an assigned law guardian in the Family Courts. From 1985-1989 Lois served as an Albany County Assistant District Attorney and worked in the Sex Offense Unit. From 1989-1996, Lois served as the Principal Lobbyist for the National Organization for Wonen-New York State and from 1996-2000 as President. She is a former adjunct Government Department Professor of Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, New York and a former Legislative Analyst for the New York State Assembly Speaker's Office from 1979-1982 where she wrote law regulating transportation of hazardous materials.
 
Lois has worked on most women's issues, including, health care, domestic violence, environmental reform, child care, divorce law, child support, civil rights, welfare reform, lesbian/gay issues, affirmative action, reproductive rights, pay equity, education and discrimination.

- posted 28 April 2005 

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Elana Silver, MS, Research Scientist, California Department of Health Services, Environmental Health Investigations Branch
 

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Fish Contamination and Biomonitoring

- posted 16 June 2005  

______________________________________________________________

Kathy Simmonds, MSN, RNC, MPH, Clinical Assistant Professor, MGH Institute of Health Professions, Graduate Program in Nursing and Director, the Reproductive Options Education Consortium for Nursing/the Abortion Access Project


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Interested in fertility decline in both human and wildlife populations; also particularly decline within marginalized/poor/"minority" communities (environmental justice).


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

I am interested in bringing nursing into discussions re: infertility/subfertility. As an educator, I feel it is important for nursing  to be both represented in this dialogue, and for nurse educators/curricula to reflect the state of the dialogue as well (so that future nurses are aware of the emerging awareness of the role that environmental factors play on fertility).


For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

I work with the Abortion Access Project (based in Cambridge, MA). Though our primary focus is abortion, we are also interested in the emerging reproductive justice movement and the intersections between our work and the issues -- including infertility/subfertility -- that this movement has identified as central.

- posted 6 April 2006   

______________________________________________________________ 

Mary Lou Singleton LM, CPM, Licensed Midwife, Clinical Herbalist, New Mexico Midwives Association, Citizens for Midwifery, Midwives Alliance of North America

 
Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Intrauterine endocrine disruption, infertility, breast milk biomonitoring


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

How can pre-conceptional and pregnant women lower their body burdens of environmental toxins?  What lifestyle and nutritional factors, if any, are associated with lower body burdens of toxins in biomonitoring studies?  How do our modern medical birth practices affect the long-term neurological and endocrine health of those being born?

- posted 28 April 2005  

______________________________________________________________

Jimmy Spearow, Ph.D., Associate Research Geneticist, University of California at Davis, Department of Environmental Toxicology
 

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility and one to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

I am a Reproductive Geneticist. I use mouse models to study genetic variation in: 1) susceptibility to endocrine disruption; and 2) sensitivity to fertility drugs. We have found 16 to over 100-fold differences between strains of mice in susceptibility to the disruption of spermatogenesis, male and female reproductive development, and gestation by estrogens (Spearow et al. 1999; Clemons et al. 2004). This work confirms hypotheses of the importance of genotype x environment interactions listed in the Vallombrosa Consensus Statement on Environmental Contaminants and Human Fertility Compromise.  I am now seeking funding  to identify genetic markers for sensitivity to estrogens and endocrine disruption by estrogens.  Such molecular markers would aid in the detection of environmentally induced disease and the optimization of hormonal treatments for improving reproductive health.

Please note that I served as the sole external reviewer for the EPA's White Paper on Species/Stock/Strain on Endocrine Disruptor Assays. The purpose of this paper was to review the literature on species and strain differences in susceptibility to endocrine disruption, and to advise the EPA on the selection of appropriate mammalian animal models for the Endocrine Disruptor Screening Program (EDSP). Unfortunately, none of the errors I identified in my final reviewer's critique were addressed in the EPA White Paper. Since this EPA White Paper was supposed to be peer reviewed, I prepared a Reviewer's Appendix to this White Paper, which was finally released with Congressional assistance. The White Paper and the Reviewer's Appendix are available: http://www.epa.gov/scipoly/oscpendo/program/whitepaper.htm.

I also work on genetic variation in ovarian response to fertility drugs, i.e. gonadotropins. (Which may be more frequently needed, due to environmentally compromised fecundity.) The tremendous inter-individual variability in response to gonadotropins is one of the biggest problems with assisted reproductive therapies (ART) in many mammalian species, including humans. While some women fail to respond to gonadotropins, others hyperstimulate to risk multiple pregnancy and the potentially life-threatening ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Several studies suggest that much of the individual variability in ovarian response to gonadotropins is actually genetic. We discovered that strains of mice differ 5 to 6-fold in the number of eggs ovulated in response to gonadotropins.  For example,  A/J strain mice ovulate 8 to 9 eggs, while C57BL/6J strain mice ovulate 42 to 54 eggs in response to gonadotropins (Spearow 1988; Spearow et al. 1999).  We also mapped genes controlling gonadotropin-induced ovulation rate to specific chromosomal regions (Spearow et al. 1999). I spent several years developing reproductive congenic strains of mice uniquely suited for identifying these genes controlling ovarian sensitivity to gonadotropins. If I can obtain funding, I will use these and other mouse models to identify genetic markers for ovarian sensitivity to fertility drugs. Such  molecular markers would aid in optimizing  hormonal treatments for achieving the desired level of  ovarian stimulation and reproduction, while avoiding multiple pregnancies and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. 

I have also worked on the effects of environmental tobacco smoke on sperm. CHE could best assist me in my work by helping to link me with others, including clinicians, scientists and FUNDING SOURCES interested in the issues of genetic sensitivity to endocrine disruptors and fertility drugs. For more information please see http://www.reproductivegenetics.org.

Literature Cited:
Clemons, K. V., J. L. Spearow, R. Parmar, M. Espiritu and D. A. Stevens (2004). "Genetic Susceptibility of Mice to Candida albicans Vaginitis Correlates with Estrogen Sensitivity." Infection and Immunity 72(8): 4878-80. Weblink
Spearow, J., P. Nutson, W. Mailliard, M. Porter and M. Barkley (1999). "Mapping genes that control hormone-induced ovulation rate in mice." Biol Reprod 61(4): 857-872. Weblink
Spearow, J. L. (1988). "Major genes control hormone-induced ovulation rate in mice." J Reprod Fertil 82: 787-797. Weblink
Spearow, J. L. and M. Barkley (1999). "Genetic control of hormone-induced ovulation rate in mice." Biol Reprod 61(4): 851-856. Weblink
Spearow, J. L., P. Doemeny, R. Sera, R. Leffler and M. Barkley (1999). "Genetic Variation in Susceptibility to Endocrine Disruption by Estrogen in Mice." Science 285(5431): 1259-1261. Weblink
 

- posted 21 March 2006
 
______________________________________________________________


Myrtis Sullivan, MD, MPH, Associate Director Great Lakes Center for Children's Environmental Health (PEHSU at Stroger Hospital of Cook County in Chicago, Illinois); Clinical Assistant Professor UIC School of Public Health, University of Illinois School of Public Health (Maternal and Child Health); Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Department of Pediatrics


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

• Children's health and the environment
• Reproductive health and the environment in minority communities
  

One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

the role of the environment and public policy and the elimination of health disparities in communities of color
 

For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Public health (eohs, MCH0, pediatrics, ob-gyn
Open to comparing notes with colleagues.

- posted 28 April 2005  

______________________________________________________________

Elizabeth Hauge Sword, Former Executive Director, CHEC (Children's Health Environmental
Coalition)

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Disseminating information on prenatal exposures to those who are pregnant or wishing to become pregnant.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

• Lack of knowledge in OB-GYN community
• Labeling
  

For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

CHEC's mission is to ensure that parents are fully informed about the potential of environmental toxins to harm their children's health.

- posted 28 April 2005 

______________________________________________________________

Jeanette Swafford, M.H.Ed.


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

I’m interested in women’s reproductive health issues, including infertility, endometriosis and cancer.

- posted 28 April 2005 

______________________________________________________________

Shanna H. Swan, Ph.D., Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Joint appointments in Environmental Medicine and Community and Preventive Medicine, University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Reproductive Epidemiology including semen quality, sex steroids, gonadotropins, time to pregnancy and other measures of fertility, menstrual function, pregnancy loss, infant growth and development, and effects of low-level exposure to xenobiotics on these
 

One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. Geographic and temporal variation in reproductive endpoints and etiologic factors that are related to that variation
   
   
2. Methods to improve detection of effects of low-level exposure on human reproductive health
   
   
3. Assessing effect of mixtures of low-doses of xenobiotics
   

 
For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Biostatistics, population biology, exposure assessment, reproductive toxicology, environmental chemistry. YES…open to comparing notes with colleagues.

 
Additional Notes/ Bio Clip:
Co-Chair Gordon Conference on EDCs, Mother of 3, grandmother of 4, happily married, love music, exercise, play the harpsichord.

- posted 28 April 2005 

______________________________________________________________

Kathy Toner, Program Officer, David and Lucile Packard Foundation


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Broadening the frame around reproductive rights, looking for intersections and areas of common interest between different constituencies around policy or program or research.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

I am on the list mainly to learn about what are the policy or science-related questions of concern.  

For nonprofit, health-affected, reproductive advocacy, funder or health professional organizations, a brief capsule description of your organization's mission (and any organizational commitments or interests regarding environmental health):

The Population Program's mission is to help to slow the world's population growth and increase reproductive health choices for women, particularly the poor and young.

- posted 28 April 2005  

______________________________________________________________



Mary Wade, MJ, CHE Partner, Individual  (Free lance journalist, health and medicine)

Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Understanding and helping prevent prenatal exposures that negatively affect the development and life-long health of children (encompassing the health and fertility of their parents, and concerns about future generations' right to healthful, successful reproduction.)

Provide people in their childbearing years reliable information re: preventing/ avoiding exposures to toxins --- practical steps people can take in their daily lives.  I also hope to help educate citizens on how to take action --- to influence government and corporations to change regulations related to toxins, endocrine disruptors, and other environmental threats.  I am designing a curriculum and materials to reach late teens-young adults entering their reproductive years and seek collaboration with CHE partners on this project. Also guest-editing a Nov. 2005 journal issue on environmental health for Zero to Three, a national organization (based in Washington DC -- www.zerotothree.org) concerned with the well-being of young children and families (prenatal to age three).


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

The connection between toxicants, physiological stress reactions (including immune, neurological, reproductive, cardiovascular and other functions), and the tremendously high "stress levels" reported by a majority of people in the industrialized world is fascinating.


Additional Notes/ Bio Clip:

From 1993 to the present I have worked with health care pioneers as a program director, health educator, outreach and media relations director, health professional program provider, grant writerand administrator.  Positions include:
* Writer, Prevention Guildelines for Clinicians, on Teratogens, and on Preventing Prenatal Environmental and Workplace Exposures, Northern California Kaiser Permanente
*  Consultant, Safe Pregnancy Initiative, CETOS (Center for Ethics and Toxics), directed by Marc Lappe, PhD (2003)
*  Administrator and Educator, Institute for the Study of Health and Illness at Commonweal, directed by Rachel Remen, MD (1997 - 2001)
* Educator, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Retreats for Health Professionals, an affiliate of MBSR at Univ. of Massachusetts Medical Center, founded by Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD (2001-2003)
*  Consultant and teacher-in-training, Mindfulness-Based Childbirth and Parenting, founded by Nancy Bardacke, CNM, MA. (2003 to present)
*  Course creator and educator, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Fertility Challenges, Institute Health and Healing, CPMC/Marin General Hospital (2000)
*  National Director, Planetree Medical Center Alliance, dedicated to humanizing health care, increasing public access to medical information, and creating healthful hospital environments. (1993 - 1996)
Earlier work:
* Educator and health materials author, integrative approaches to healthy childbearing:  Kaiser Permanente, Marin General Hospital, APPLE Family Center Marin County, and California Parenting Institute, Santa Rosa.  Also taught in-service courses OB-Gyn professionals for Kaiser. (1981 - 1993)
*  Program consultant, BeneMax preventive cardiovascular program, directed by Clark Kerr, Jr (1979)
*  Volunteer peer educator, pregnancy counselor, and patient care aide, Planned Parenthood of Santa Cruz County (1976-78)

- posted 28 April 2005 

______________________________________________________________


Gayle C. Windham PhD (MSPH in Epi), Research Scientist (Epidemiology), CA Dept of Health Services, Division of Environmental and Occupational Disease Control


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Endocrine disruptors (chlorinated pesticides), solvents, tobacco smoke in relation to pregnancy outcome, fertility or time to pregnancy, hormone and menstrual cycle function, offspring reproductive development including puberty and ultimately fertility.


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. Developing methods/systems for monitoring fertility and relating rates or trends to environmental exposures. Also to provide baseline data.
   
   
2. Identifying biomarkers or surrogates on the pathway to infertility (such as hormone levels) to permit more widespread investigation of risk factors.
   
   
3. Studying in utero effects on offspring reproductive capacity.
   

For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

The topics noted above—biomarkers, repro tox, epidemiology, exposure assessment. (Open to contact).

Additional Notes/ Bio Clip:

Also interested in international collaboration as lived abroad, worked for many years in international professional society, and currently involved in Fogarty training with Shanghai CDC.

- posted 28 April 2005 

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Julie Wirth, Assistant Professor, Environmental Epidemiologist, Department of Epidemiology, Michigan State University and Bureau of Epidemiology Michigan Department of Community Health


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

My research involves the effects environmental contaminants and male infertility and genetic susceptibility factors and male infertility

One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

How can we more accurately measure male infertility, as a clinical diagnosis and also as biomarkers for earlier stages of subfertility?


For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

• Mechanisms by which environmental chemicals can affect fertility, especially epigenetic pathways
• Role of cytokines and chemokines in infertility
• Open to comparing notes with colleagues.
• I'm looking forward to interacting more with members.
  

- posted 28 April 2005 

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Edward Victor Younglai, Ph.D., Professor, Division of Reproductive Biology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada


Main topic(s) or areas of interest related to environment/fertility:

Effects of pesticides on ovarian function


One to 3 science or policy questions related to environment/fertility of critical interest:

1. Do the benefits of pesticides outweigh the risks?
   
   
2. Should pesticides be banned without adequate evidence for adverse effects?
   

For researchers, what disciplines might you consider interesting in terms of collaborative potential or for collegial discussions with regard to environment/fertility?

Reproductive toxicology

Are you open to contacts for collegial comparing of notes? If so, please indicate:

Data related to pesticide use.

<em class="caption">- posted 1 November 2005

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