Hormones in Aquatic Ecosystem: Problems and Solutions: Case Study in Egypt

This study aimed to review existing literature on the effects of both synthetic and natural estrogens on aquatic ecosystems and to explore methods for their removal, given their rapidly increasing presence in water bodies worldwide. Estrogens enter aquatic systems primarily through the disposal of animal waste and the discharge of domestic sewage. Their presence in water has been linked to serious health concerns and is known to disrupt the physiological functions of fish, impair reproductive processes in animals, and negatively impact plant growth. In recent years, research has focused on evaluating the effectiveness of sewage treatment plants (STPs) in degrading and removing these compounds. Various conventional and advanced techniques, including physical treatments and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), have been investigated for their potential to eliminate estrogens from aquatic environments.