The role of Parabens in Diabetes

Parabens are esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid and have been used as preservatives for personal care products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and foods attributable to their anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease characterized by an increase in the concentration of sugar in the blood [hyperglycemia] and a disturbance of glucose metabolism, either as a result of decreased insulin secretion or due to a decrease in the sensitivity of the body's cells to insulin. It has been found association between urinary paraben levels in early pregnancy and Gestational diabetes. The purpose of the review is the association between parabens and diabetes. While previous studies have assessed the association between endocrine disruptors and conditions that are often comorbid with or predispose to diabetes, the literature lacks large population studies examining the association with diabetes. However, studies showed that butylparaben concentrations were positively associated with glucose levels, propylparaben concentrations negatively associated with glucose levels in pregnant women.