BPA (bisphenol A) is a hormone-disrupting synthetic estrogen chemical additive that is used in many forms of plastic and packaging products. Numerous studies have linked it to reproductive changes in children, cancer, early puberty onset, fertility problems and heart health issues. Although many companies have reduced or eliminated that use of BPA in their plastic products, the long term effects of the chemical have recently been shown to last for several generations.
BPA Lingers
Adults metabolize chemicals much better than children. While adult systems may be better suited to eliminate dangerous toxins , in children, the chemicals can linger throughout a lifetime, particularly if the chemical exposure occurs in utero.
Mothers may unknowingly expose their children to BPA chemicals during pregnancy. Exposure can occur through inhaling, ingesting or skin exposure. BPA chemicals are present in common items such as storage containers, cash register tape, plastic bottles, plastic food wrap and many other products.
In a study examining the effects of BPA on children exposed to the chemical during pregnancy, researchers from the University of Virginia School of Medicine found that children demonstrated aggressive behavioral problems, cognitive impairments and difficulties with anxiety.
Additionally, they found that BPA produces genetic changes that last for several generations. In studying mice exposed to BPA, researches discovered that genetic changes existed up to four generations past the time of exposure. The genetic changes were the strongest in the first generation after exposure. However, genetic changes remained persistent.
BPA Manufacturers Part of the Problem
In an interesting turn, manufacturers continue to assert that BPA is a safe chemical additive that makes plastic and other packaging products safe. This, despite more than 150 rigorous scientific studies demonstrating the dangerous that even small amounts of BPA presents to humans. It has been found that approximately 95 percent of baby bottles on the market contain BPA.
In an interesting turn, we found that one industry marketing group is paying for top advertising locations on Google to publish misleading positive reports about BPA. The site proclaims they “represent most of the major manufacturers of polycarbonate plastic and BPA worldwide.” By using Google advertising, the BPA manufacturers may believe they can sway the public by providing information contrary to the science. This may be an effort to prevent further legislation outlawing the use of BPA in consumer products.
What do you think about BPA in plastic consumer products? Do you believe it is harmful or do you think the manufacturers are right and should fight consumers?
– The Alternative Daily
