New study shows BPA exposure is widespread

A new study on bisphenol A (BPA) is showing a global snapshot of exposure to it and its possible harmful effects on humans, even in developing countries.

Laura Vandenberg, Ph.D., of Tufts University’s Center for Regenerative and Developmental Biology, has released a global study on exposure to BPA. The report, published this week in the Environmental Health Perspectives Journal, is comprised of 80 separate studies. Vandenberg stated, "What we found is that even in developing countries a majority of people sampled have BPA in their bodies. And we’re talking about the form associated with harmful effects (in humans)."

Vandenberg also recommended that a "precautionary principle be followed until further data on exposure of fetuses and children to BPA become available: the health of the public is at stake."

This article appears in Mar 31 – Apr 6, 2010.