Bisphenol A (BPA)

[Michael Broer]

Got sent this today and thought it may be of interest to those of you interested in dietary therapy. Apparently its not just the chemicals in processed food but also the packaging that's killing us:

"Physician's First Watch for September 17, 2008
David G. Fairchild, MD, MPH, Editor-in-Chief

BPA Associated with Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes

Bisphenol A (BPA) — commonly used in hard plastic food and beverage containers and the lining of metal cans — is associated with increased rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and sentinel liver enzymes, according to a JAMA study.

Using national nutrition survey data on the urinary BPA levels of nearly 1500 adults, researchers found significant increases in cardiovascular disease and diabetes among people in the highest quartile of BPA exposure, compared with those in the lowest. Similarly, abnormal levels of gamma-glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase were also more likely with increasing exposure.

Editorialists criticize the FDA and the EPA for using outmoded measurement techniques and models of toxicity in addressing the question of BPA's safety. Chemical manufacturers also come under criticism for "an aggressive disinformation campaign using techniques ... first developed by the lead, vinyl, and tobacco industries."

Meanwhile, the FDA on Tuesday defended BPA's safety before an expert panel, according to an Associated Press report."

Here is a link to the full study:

http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/300/11/1303