Pregnancy Health Concerns-chemical Found In Everyday Plastics Could Cause Health Problems

Harvard School of Public Health Study On Chemical Bisphenol A (BPA)

A study carried out by the Harvard School of Public Health, USA, confirmed the findings of 2 previous studies. The Harvard School of Public Health study investigated the effects of the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) which is frequently used in the manufacturing of plastic bottles as well as in the lining of tin cans. BPA had previously been linked to increasing the risk of both diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

244 mothers had their urine samples taken during pregnancy, at birth and samples were compared to those taken from their children when aged between one year old to three years old. The relationship was examined between the concentrations of BPA in the urine samples of the mothers and children, in relation to the children's behaviours. Although the behaviours were not classed as clinically abnormal, some of the children had more behaviour problems than others.

In the children, the higher the BPA concentrations were linked to those children with aggressive, hyperactive, depressed and anxious behaviour, plus poorer emotional control, in the girls. This pattern was not found in the boys. In addition to confirming the findings of previous studies, this study importantly highlighted that the dangers in-utero are higher than after birth and into childhood.

Bisphenol A (BPA) Since The 1930s

Since the mid 1930s bisphenol A (BPA) has been known to be estrogenic, over the years there have been regular reports in the media highlighting the concerns of using bisphenol A (BPA). In 2010 the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in America raised further concerns regarding the exposure of bisphenol A (BPA) to foetuses, babies and young children. Canada became the first country in September 2010 to declare bisphenol A (BPA) a toxic substance.

One 2011 study found BPA in 96% of pregnant women. The Harvard School of Public Health study found it in 85% of the 244 women who took part in the study and in 96% of the young children aged between one and three years old.

What Is Bisphenol A (BPA) And What Health Issues May If Cause?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor which mimics the body's hormones potentially leading to negative health effects. Some studies have found concerns in the effects it potentially has on the behaviour, brain and prostate gland in foetuses, babies and young children.

Other studies have also highlighted concerns about:

Obesity

Neurological issues

Disruption of the dopaminergic system

Thyroid function

Cancer

Breast cancer

Neuroblastoma

Prostate development and cancer

DNA methylation

Reproductive system

Sexual behaviour research

Heart disease

Diabetes

Pregnancy loss

Intrauterine growth restriction

This list is not a full definitive list, as there have been numerous studies about the potential effects of Bisphenol A (BPA).

Hot debate continues regarding Bisphenol A (BPA), as to the effects and also the levels found in people's urine; if it is, or is not enough to cause health problems. However when it comes to pregnancy health concerns, it is best to err of the side of caution and avoid this suspect chemical which is found in plastic water bottles and aluminium cans.

by: Jackie De Burca

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