Stress caused by some synthetic chemicals to the human body's endocrine system, which is composed of glands and the hormones they produce, may be more far-reaching than suspected.
The endocrine system regulates not only reproduction but growth, blood pressure, blood sugar, the body's metabolism, the functioning of the brain and the nervous system.
A wide range of chemicals, including some pesticides, have been increasingly suspected of affecting the endocrine system and have been classified as endocrine disruptors.
It is believed they disturb the endocrine system of humans and wildlife and some research suggests the level of disruption is hugely under-estimated.
The European Parliament's committee on the environment, public health and consumer policy has adopted a report in response to a European Commission strategy paper on endocrine disruptors.
While the Commission would first like to draw up a list of suspected endocrine disruptors and subject them to further testing, the committee wants more urgent action.
It recommends that a list of substances should be identified, against which immediate steps should be taken. Measures should include banning, phasing out and/or limiting the use of these substances.
The Commission and member-states are urged by the committee to establish a European screening and testing strategy. The report says a European research programme should gather information and scientific knowledge, and encourage the exchange of information on disruptors.
The Commission proposes to analyse existing legal instruments in the long run, but is now asked to complete this study by mid-2001.