About this topic
Bisphenol A is also called BPA. It is a chemical that is used to make lightweight, hard plastics. This kind of plastic may be found in bottles or cups that can be used many times. It may also be found in plastic dishes, linings of food cans, or water pipes. There are many places that you may come in contact with BPA. ‚
You may come in contact with BPA by using plastic food containers. You can also be exposed through air, dust, or water. Even babies and young children may be exposed to BPA from bottles and sippy cups. ‚
General
BPA is a chemical that is an endocrine disruptor. Your endocrine system keeps your body in balance. The hormones released through your endocrine system help guide proper growth and development. An endocrine disruptor may affect how the hormones in your body work and your health. ‚
What will the results be?
Doctors and scientists are still learning about the effects of BPA on the body. They believe it may affect the brain, behavior, and reproductive glands in babies and children. Some studies showed a possible link between BPA and cancer or heart problems. More studies are being done to learn about the long-term effects of BPA. ‚
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Use:
- Look for plastics with recycle codes 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6. These are unlikely to have BPA in them.
- Use bottles made of opaque plastic, which does not contain BPA.
- Use glass, porcelain, or stainless steel containers instead of plastic.
- Use water bottles that are labeled BPA-free.
- Get rid of or do not use:
- Scratched food containers, cups, and baby bottles. They may hold germs and release BPA.
- Plastics that have a 3 or 7 recycle code, or the letters PC printed on them.
- Take extra care with heat and plastics.
- Heat can transfer BPA and other materials from a bottle or container to your food.
- Do not put boiling water or very hot water in a bottle or container that has BPA.
- Do not use plastic containers in the microwave.
- Cool sterilized bottles to room temperature before adding formula or breast milk. Many baby bottles are made without BPA. Check before you use.
- Water bottles kept in a car can become hot from the inside temperature of a car on a hot day.
When do I need to call the doctor?
If you have concerns about your child having ingested BPA, call your doctor. ‚
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Pediatrics ‚
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/feeding-nutrition/Pages/Baby-Bottles-And-Bisphenol-A-BPA.aspx ‚
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences ‚
http://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/sya-bpa/index.cfm ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚