Report Links Plastics Chemical BPA To Health, Development Problems

Report Links Plastics Chemical BPA To Health, Development Problems

By ALICIA MUNDY
April 15, 2008 6:00 p.m.

WASHINGTON -- A draft report from the National Toxicology Program has concluded that the plastics chemical Bisphenol A, known as BPA, may be linked to a number of health and developmental problems, including breast cancer and early puberty.

Bottles containing Bisphenol A that were pulled from a Canadian retailer last year

In January, the House Energy and Commerce Committee expressed concerns because BPA is among chemicals used in plastic baby bottles as well as the plastic lining of cans of infant formula.

The committee as well as health advocacy groups such as the Environmental Working Group have also complained that chemical-industry contractors have misrepresented BPA's potential hazards.

Tuesday's report from the program, part of the National Institutes of Health, contradicts the results of some industry-funded studies that have minimized concerns about the effects of small amounts of BPA. The new report said the chemical, even in small quantities, may be linked to the problems. (See full report.)

Earlier this year, the House committee, led by Rep. John Dingell (D., Mich.), contacted several baby-formula makers, asking them whether and how much BPA could be found in their products. Some companies responded saying that they tested for the chemical and that their products are safe.

The Food and Drug Administration responded to the House committee's concerns by saying that BPA in small amounts doesn't pose a health risk, but the agency has since come under fire from Mr. Dingell and the House committee.

The new report is likely to prompt more action by the committee concerning the FDA and the chemical industry's more positive reports on the chemical's safety.