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Abstract The environments in which we grow and mature influence the processes and the bio behavioral interactions among them. The influence of several dimensions of the natural, man-made and social environments on aspects of growth, maturation and development were briefly considered. Pollution and contamination are globally widespread, and it is unlikely that there is any human population that is completely unaffected by them. Hazardous chemicals escape to the environment by a number of natural and/or anthropogenic activities and may cause adverse effects on human health and the environment. pollution has both acute and chronic effects on human health, affecting a number of different systems and organs. It ranges from minor upper respiratory irritation to chronic respiratory and heart disease, lung cancer, acute respiratory infections in children and chronic bronchitis in adults, aggravating pre-existing heart and lung disease, or asthmatic attacks. In addition, short- and long-term exposures have also been linked with premature mortality and reduced life expectancy This review presents the adverse effects of a number of pollutants in human health with special concern to growth and development. This study also discussed that prenatal exposure to many pollutants was widespread among the pregnant women. we found that Environmental chemicals associated with growth disruption can be classified into two main groups; endocrine disruptors and heavy metals. Regarding endocrine disruptors, multiple chemicals have been identified including Phthalates, Bisphenol A, and Polychlorinated biphenyls. Phthalates have confirmed endocrine disruption effects like decreased levels of thyroid hormone and steroids. Bisphenol A has many disruptive effects like sperm production inhibition and behavioral changes. Heavy metals include basic metal elements such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic. Lead is a common pollutant causing reduction in linear growth, pubertal maturation, and IQ deficits. Arsenic and cadmium may cause decrease birth size and delayed puberty. Heavy metal toxicity is serious hazards as it may lead to health disorders like cardiovascular system, kidney stones; damage the neurons in the brains The impact of elevated levels of blood lead on growth and maturation and on movement proficiency and physical fitness was considered. Children with elevated lead levels are at increased risk for impaired growth and maturation. Reducing exposures by reducing release of chemicals to the environment, however, requires action by industry and government. |