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Long-term Behavioral and Reproductive Consequences of Embryonic Exposure to Low-dose Toxicants
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Published on: March 6, 2018

Prenatal and early childhood bisphenol A concentrations and behavior in school-aged children

Kim G Harley1, Robert B Gunier, Katherine Kogut

  • 1Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, 1995 University Ave., Suite 265, Berkeley, CA 94704, USA.

Environmental Research
|July 23, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Early exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) is linked to behavioral issues in children. Prenatal BPA exposure affected boys

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical found in various consumer products.
  • Previous animal and human studies suggest a link between early life BPA exposure and behavioral problems.
  • Understanding the impact of BPA on child development is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between prenatal and childhood BPA exposure and child behavior.
  • To examine potential sex differences in the effects of BPA on behavior.

Main Methods:

  • Urine samples were collected from 292 mothers during pregnancy and their children at age 5.
  • Child behavior was assessed at ages 7 and 9 using parent and teacher reports, and direct assessments.
  • Urinary BPA concentrations were measured to quantify exposure levels.

Main Results:

  • Prenatal BPA exposure was associated with increased internalizing behaviors (anxiety, depression) in 7-year-old boys.
  • Childhood BPA exposure was linked to externalizing behaviors (conduct problems) in 7-year-old girls.
  • Childhood BPA exposure was also associated with internalizing behaviors and inattention/hyperactivity in both boys and girls at age 7.

Conclusions:

  • This study reinforces the association between early life BPA exposure and behavioral problems in children.
  • Findings highlight potential sex-specific effects and the importance of exposure timing.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand BPA's impact on child neurodevelopment.
Abstract

Keywords:
ADHDAnxietyBehaviorBisphenol AChildrenDepression

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