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Heart Disease, Diabetes Linked to Everyday BPA

Chemical common in plastic containers used by US adults, children

By Ambreen Ali,  Newser User

Posted Sep 16, 2008 12:52 PM CDT
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(Newser) – A chemical found in many containers commonly used by Americans is linked to heart disease and diabetes in a new study, the Chicago Tribune reports. The first large-scale human study of Bisphenol A follows a government advisory on using the chemical near food, and a report connecting it to ill effects on fetal brain and prostate-gland development.

The findings come as “absolutely no surprise” to doctors, since a “large literature” of animal studies links BPA to disease. But an industry rep says the study didn't track long-term levels of BPA in people, which he says are “far below scientific-based safety standards.” Still, Wal-Mart is phasing out BPA-laced baby bottles, and Nalgene is removing the chemical from water bottles.

Canadian Environment Minister John Baird, left, and Health Minister Tony Clement hand out baby bottles that are free of the chemical BPA in Ottawa.
Canadian Environment Minister John Baird, left, and Health Minister Tony Clement hand out baby bottles that are free of the chemical BPA in Ottawa.   (AP Photo)
This undated photo provided by BornFree shows their Bisphenol A (BPA) free plastic baby bottles.
This undated photo provided by BornFree shows their Bisphenol A (BPA) free plastic baby bottles.   (AP Photo/BornFree)
High concentrations of BPA levels may cause higher risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
High concentrations of BPA levels may cause higher risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.   (AP Photo)
Matt McHugh holds his Nalgene bottle at his home in Rochester, N.Y., Monday, Dec. 17, 2007. The company announced it will remove BPA from its plastic bottles.
Matt McHugh holds his Nalgene bottle at his home in Rochester, N.Y., Monday, Dec. 17, 2007. The company announced it will remove BPA from its plastic bottles.   (AP Photo/Kevin Rivoli)
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Study confuses FDA's finding that chemical is safe
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Years of exposure poses risk
CBC (Canada)

 
cardiovascular disease • bisphenol A • USDA • liver • type 2 diabetes • Walmart • scientific study • BPA • Nalgene

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