Personal Injury Law

BPA Exposure May Affect Behaviors

By Chrissie Cole

In October, a new study found that maternal exposure to bisphenol-A (BPA) could decrease or eliminate the sex difference in certain behavioral responses.

The study adds to the mounting evidence that suggests BPA exposure affects behaviors of the brain among other health conditions.

Those paying attention to the debate over BPA safety have likely noticed that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Toxicology Program (NTP) offer differing opinions on the issue.

The NTP, in its detailed analysis says, they have some concern for the effects on the brain, behavior and prostate gland in fetuses, infants and children at current human exposures to bisphenol A.

While the FDA, in August, claimed BPA poses no risk based on current evidence available and suggested more research was needed to disprove the notion that BPA is toxic.

But, on Wednesday, a scientific advisory panel concluded the FDA underestimated scientific evidence and employed flawed methods when deciding BPA, a chemical widely used in baby bottles and in the lining of cans, is not harmful.

The report found the FDA did not take into account a host of studies linking bisphenol-A (BPA) to diabetes, prostate cancer and other health problems when finalizing its first draft risk assessment in September.

In August, the agency chose to ignore studies that found harmful effects of bisphenol-A. The agency chose instead, to rely largely on industry-sponsored studies that found no associated risk with exposure to BPA.

Despite what the government says about the safety of BPA, evidence has been mounting and it is suggestive that BPA is indeed harmful.

“The FDA agrees that in light of concerns raised in several studies relating to potential effects of low doses of BPA, that additional research will prove valuable,” said July Leon, a spokeswoman for the FDA.

The agency is moving forward with planned research aimed at addressing the potential low-dose effects of BPA. They plan to carefully assess the findings of these studies, said the agency in a recent statement.

How to Avoid BPA

The National Toxicology Program of Health and Human Services issues the following warnings:

? Do not microwave polycarbonate plastic food containers. They may break down from overuse and release BPA. BPA containing containers have a #7 on the bottom within the recycle symbol, a triangle with arrows.

? Reduce the use of canned foods especially acidic foods such s tomatoes that can cause BOPA to leach into the food. Opt instead for soups in the “brick” cardboard containers or safer layers of aluminum and polyethylene plastic (Labeled #2) in the recycle logo.

? Switch to glass, porcelain or stainless steel containers, especially for hot food or liquids.

? Use baby bottles that are BPA free or glass.

BPA is found in the epoxy resin that coats the inside of most food and beverage cans. It is also found in dental fillings. BPA has been cited as a component of plastic baby bottles.

Over 2.2 million tons is produced each year and resides in the majority of people.

Full post as published by InjuryBoard on November 03, 2008 (boomark / email).