I can attest to the fact that knowledge of the harmful effects of BPA is becoming ubiquitous. This is due to the fact that the subject came up at Christmas dinner. My family is generally interested in historical discussions, but not often current issues.
“Is the worst thing about plastics the BPA?” my brother asked me when I told them about the blog. Another brother became worried that he has to handle the receipts at his job. (Studies just showed they are loaded with BPA.)
Here is a partial list of the damage linked to BPA, for those who still don’t know:
- cardiovascular disease
- intestinal problems
- brain cell connection interference
- increased risks of reproductive and immune system diseases and disorders
- problems with liver function testing
- interruptions in chemotherapy
- premature puberty
- polycystic ovarian syndrome and other female fertility issues
- erectile dysfunction and male sexual problems
90% of people in our country show traces of the chemical in their urine.
In current news, Massachusetts has just joined seven other states and a number of countries, in banning BPA from being added to items manufactured for children 3 and under. Of course this is great news, but I can’t help but wish our country was quicker to eliminate the chemical altogether, like Canada has.
When the issue gets close to home, like the thought of my younger brother handling toxic cash receipts at work, it becomes more dire. Read this Washington Post piece about the opposition to banning the substance encountered this spring.
At this time, there is no new legislation introduced into Congress to ban BPA nationwide. You can support proposed city and state-wide bans. And read Dr. Weil’s advice on avoiding the substance as much as possible.
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