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ISNA and BDRC to Investigate Relation Between Toxins and Intersex Conditions
Contact: Monica J. Casper, Ph.D., Executive Director, ISNA (206) 633-6077
Betty Mekdeci, Executive Director, BDRC, (407) 895-0802
(Seattle, June 16, 2003) -- The Intersex Society of North America, in conjunction with Birth Defects Research for Children, Inc., announced the launch of an innovative project to examine the relationship between environmental toxins and the development of intersex conditions.
"Is there a cause and effect relation between environmental toxins and intersex conditions? We do not know yet, but we intend to find out," stated Dr. Monica J. Casper, ISNA's Executive Director. "There are many opportunities for learning through this project. In addition to gaining knowledge about the relationship between intersex conditions and toxins, we intend to address social, ethical, and political issues regarding that relationship. Here at ISNA we are especially excited about engaging with environmental health issues and communities as we continue to advocate for the rights of all people with intersex conditions, regardless of the origin or cause of their condition."
Betty Mekdeci, Executive Director of BDRC, stated "This grant will allow ISNA and BDRC to build a working partnership that may eventually evolve into a more sustained collaboration, while also increasing the capacity of both organizations to address an important and timely issue. This is a very sensitive area for advocacy groups, as we struggle to balance real concerns about the rise in birth defects with ongoing efforts to destigmatize conditions such as intersex. This project will enable us to develop appropriate responses to an emerging body of scientific evidence."
The project, funded by the Collaborative on Health and the Environment, will provide data and guidance as both organizations seek to respond to increasing concerns from people with intersex conditions, parents, health care professionals, and others about the role of toxins in producing bodily differences. ISNA and BDRC will release their findings in Spring 2004.
Intersex conditions affect approximately 1 in 1,500 to 2,000 births. While many of the conditions classified as intersex are assumed to be naturally-occurring, a growing body of literature documents the relationship between atypical genitalia and reproductive organs and exposure to toxins in the environment. For example, there is a fairly significant body of literature suggesting an environmental link to hypospadias and testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS). The intersex and disability rights communities are concerned about this evidence, and are eager to begin exploring what it means for activism aimed at reducing stigma and supporting people with intersex conditions.
The Intersex Society of North America is devoted to systemic change to end shame, secrecy, and unwanted surgeries for children born with sexual or reproductive anatomy that is not recognized as standard male or female. Birth Defect Research for Children, Inc. (BDRC) provides parents and expectant parents with information about birth defects and support services for their children, as well as maintains the National Birth Defect Registry. This registry collects data on over 300 categories of birth defects and development disabilities, including prenatal and pre-conceptual exposures.