Environmental watch

September 18, 2008 | Print

BPA Linked to Diabetes and Heart Disease

The chemical Bisphenol A (BPA) found in hard plastics (like baby bottles), plastic linings of canned goods and dental sealants continues to be controversial.

While the FDA recently issued a draft assessment stating that BPA containing products are safe, a study published this week in the Journal of the American Medical Association links exposure to BPA with heart disease, diabetes and liver-enzyme abnormalities in adults.

Animal studies had related BPA to diabetes and liver damage, the connection to heart disease was unexpected.

Researchers assessed the health conditions of 1,455 adults previously tested for BPA in their urine as part of a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study.

The FDA still supports its statement that BPA levels in FDA regulated products are safe, and states the need for more research.

More information: The National Toxicology Progam report on BPA and children’s development, and simple tips on how to avoid BPA.

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