Common chemical used in plastics can feminise males & masculinise females, study finds
The use of plastics has become an integral part of our daily lives, from packaging and containers to toys and electronics. However, a recent study has shed light on the potential risks associated with a common chemical compound used in the production of plastics, known as Bisphenol A (BPA). According to the study, published in the journal Communications Medicine, exposure to small amounts of BPA before birth can cause sex-specific changes in metabolism and the immune system.
The study’s findings have significant implications for human health, particularly in relation to the development of embryos and foetuses. The researchers found that even very low doses of BPA can alter the expression of genes, leading to changes in the development of males and females. Specifically, the study found that females were masculinised, while males were feminised, as a result of exposure to BPA.
The study’s first author noted that “Even very low doses changed how the genes were expressed. Females were masculinised and males were feminised.” This suggests that BPA can have a profound impact on the development of reproductive systems, potentially leading to changes in the formation of sex-specific traits and characteristics.
BPA is a chemical compound commonly used in the production of plastics, including food packaging, water bottles, and other consumer products. It is also used in the manufacture of epoxy resins, which are used to line food cans and other containers. As a result, humans are frequently exposed to BPA through food and water, as well as through contact with plastics and other consumer products.
The study’s findings are based on experiments conducted on mice, which were exposed to BPA during pregnancy. The researchers found that the offspring of mice exposed to BPA exhibited changes in their metabolic and immune systems, which were sex-specific. The changes were observed even at very low doses of BPA, which are comparable to the levels of exposure that humans experience through everyday contact with plastics and food packaging.
The implications of the study’s findings are significant, particularly in relation to the potential risks associated with BPA exposure. The study suggests that exposure to BPA before birth can have long-lasting effects on the development of reproductive systems, potentially leading to changes in fertility, reproductive health, and even the development of certain diseases.
The study’s authors note that the findings have important implications for public health policy, particularly in relation to the regulation of BPA use in consumer products. They suggest that policymakers should consider the potential risks associated with BPA exposure and take steps to reduce exposure, particularly for pregnant women and children.
In addition to the potential risks associated with BPA exposure, the study’s findings also highlight the importance of considering the sex-specific effects of environmental chemicals. The study’s authors note that many environmental chemicals, including BPA, can have different effects on males and females, and that these effects should be taken into account when assessing the potential risks associated with exposure.
Overall, the study’s findings provide new insights into the potential risks associated with BPA exposure, particularly in relation to the development of reproductive systems. The study highlights the importance of considering the sex-specific effects of environmental chemicals and the need for policymakers to take steps to reduce exposure to BPA and other potentially harmful chemicals.
As consumers, we can also take steps to reduce our exposure to BPA and other environmental chemicals. This can include avoiding the use of plastics and opting for glass or stainless steel containers instead, as well as choosing products that are labelled as “BPA-free”. Additionally, we can support policymakers who are working to regulate the use of BPA and other environmental chemicals, and advocate for greater transparency and accountability in the production and use of these chemicals.
In conclusion, the study’s findings provide a timely reminder of the potential risks associated with BPA exposure, particularly in relation to the development of reproductive systems. As we continue to learn more about the effects of environmental chemicals on human health, it is essential that we take steps to reduce our exposure and promote greater transparency and accountability in the production and use of these chemicals.
News source: https://www.uu.se/en/news/2025/2025-10-27-bisphenol-a-causes-sex-specific-changes-in-metabolism-and-the-immune-system
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