BPA (B ISPHENOL A) Exploring the recent health concerns Alex Henson Period 2

W HAT IS BPA? “An organic compound used in the manufacture of certain plastics.” -Wikipedia “A controversial chemical that can leak out of the can linings into your food.” –National Geographic

W HAT IS THE CONTROVERSY ? BPA has been found to lead to some health risks, like cancers, fertility problems and childhood behavioral problems. This most frequently affects unborn babies, and new born babies because the BPA because of the womb being exposed to it. The BPA does not stay attached to the bottles or plastic it is in. It can go from the baby bottle into the milk, and then gets fed to the babies.

W HERE IS B PA FOUND ? Its found in plastic bottles, like Nalgenes, or baby bottles. It can also be in cans that hold food, and even in dental sealant. “Plastic water and baby bottles, food and beverage can linings and dental sealants are the most commonly encountered uses of this chemical. Unfortunately, it doesn't stay put. BPA has been found to leach from bottles into babies' milk or formula; it migrates from can liners into foods and soda and from epoxy resin-lined vats into wine; and it is found in the mouths of people who've recently had their teeth sealed. Ninety-five percent of Americans were found to have the chemical in their urine in a 2004 biomonitoring study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).”- National Geographic

W HAT CAN BE DONE There is a simple solution to decrease your exposure to BPA. They now are making BPA-free bottles, as well as metal bottles, so you will not be risking having your drink getting infected.

W HY I CHOSE THIS TOPIC When I first heard people talking about how Nalgenes can cause cancer, I thought it was pretty absurd, and figured it was like people saying that they have “restless leg syndrome.” After looking up this information on it though, it seems like it is easy enough to prevent, so I don’t know why people are not paying more attention to the research that has gone in to it. Most of the solution that anyone can do is to just buy a new water bottle that is BPA-free.