Chemical BPA and why it sucks
By: Mona
July 2010
What it is: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical commonly used to make polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resin.
Where it is: BPA has been used in many hard plastic bottles and metal-based food and beverage cans since the 60s. It is commonly used in the plastic lining of canned foods and in polycarbonate plastics such as drinking bottles, baby bottles and reusable plastic containers. BPA can also be found in thermal paper such as airline tickets, event and cinema tickets, labels and point of sale applications (receipts).
Why it sucks:
Low levels of BPA has been linked to the following health effects:
--neurological disorders
--breast cancer
--colon cancer
--neuroblastoma (most common childhood cancer)
--thyroid function
--reproductive system
--male sexual dysfunction
--obesity
High levels of BPA were significantly associated with:
--heart disease
--diabetes
--abnormally high levels of certain liver enzymes
--recurrent miscarriage
--externalizing behaviors
--altered hormone levels
--declining male sexual function
A 2010 review concluded that BPA may increase cancer risk.
A 2010 study with mice concluded that BOA exposure in utero leads to permanent DNA alterations in sensitivity to estrogen.
This is only some of what is currently published. I wonder how much more there is to know. After reading this, I'm left to wonder if this chemical has anything to do with the rise in diabetes, heart disease, cancer, neurological disorders, obesity and the demand for viagra. I'm just sayin'...
Source: Wikipedia