Bisphenol A – Enigma and Health Controversies
A 321 page report issued by the U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services and the National Toxicology Program (NTP) has implicated Bisphenol-A (BPA) in adverse effects on the development of the prostate gland and brain and for behavioral effects in fetuses and infants. Bisphenol-A is found in many polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins including the chemicals found in plastic bottles used for a variety of beverages.
The report, released September 4, 2008 provides the current opinion on BPA’s potential to cause harm to human reproduction or development. However, despite other reports linking BPA to metabolic syndrome and even impairments in learning and memory, FDA continues to take the stance that this substance does not pose any substantial risk to humans.
Unfortunately, the report findings do not give any guidance to consumers at this point. More research is needed to determine how these findings relate to human health and development, but at this point it can’t be dismissed that the effects being seen in animals from this substance might be extended to humans.
The report also expresses some minimal concern that BPA exposure will affect development of the mammary gland or accelerate puberty in females. While there are many conflicting findings, animal evidence offers some concern on the effects of BPA on the above mentioned parameters.
Researchers agree that much more research is needed to come to conclusive recommendations to make to the public.
About the author
Kathy Shattler received her Master of Science degree from Michigan State University in E. Lansing Michigan in Human Nutrition. Her twenty-two years of practice includes holding positions as a Lecturer, Chief Clinical Dietitian and Program Manager. Kathy is the Founder of Nutri-Care Consulting and is currently the Nutrition Director of www.CEU4U.COM, an online continuing education management company for Registered Dietitians and Dietetic Technicians.
