Bisphenol A: invisible pollution

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a high volume chemical used in a wide variety of products, including plastic bottles and canned goods. Based on widespread human exposure and endocrine effects observed first in animal studies and now in humans, this chemical is being extensively studied. Most physicians have not had formal teaching regarding human risks from environmental exposures such as BPA. This article aims to provide: 1) a basis for learning about BPA as an environmental exposure and 2) practical advice for healthcare providers to share with concerned families.

Human exposure to BPA is nearly universal. Animal studies have documented a variety of endocrine effects of this chemical and recent studies involving humans are resulting in growing concerns. These studies suggest that increased exposure to BPA is correlated with diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Based on the metabolism of BPA and its endocrine effects, scientists hypothesize that the impact on children will be magnified. Further studies are needed to clarify this issue; funding has increased dramatically in recent years and scientists are hopeful that many of the currently unanswered questions will be addressed.

The evidence for harmful health effects on humans from BPA exposure is incomplete, but is sufficient to suggest that limiting exposure is warranted. Further studies involving pregnant women and young children are needed to clarify the endocrine effects of BPA on this vulnerable population.