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 the packaging of our food to the containers we use to store our belongings. However, a recent study has shed light on the potential dangers of a common chemical compound used to make plastics, known as Bisphenol A (BPA). The study, published in the journal Communications Medicine, has found that exposure to small amounts of BPA before birth can cause sex-specific changes in metabolism and the immune system.
The study’s findings suggest that even very low doses of BPA can have a significant impact on the development of males and females. According to the study’s first author, “Even very low doses changed how the genes were expressed. Females were masculinised and males were feminised.” This means that females exposed to BPA before birth may develop characteristics that are typically associated with males, while males may develop characteristics that are typically associated with females.
The study’s results are alarming, as BPA is a widely used chemical compound that is found in many everyday products, including food packaging, water bottles, and plastic containers. The chemical can leach into food and water, particularly when the plastic is heated or damaged, and can be absorbed into the body through the skin or digestive system.
The study’s authors used a mouse model to investigate the effects of BPA on fetal development. They found that exposure to BPA before birth altered the expression of genes involved in metabolism and the immune system, leading to sex-specific changes in the development of the mice. The changes were observed even at very low doses of BPA, which are similar to the levels of exposure that humans may experience through everyday contact with plastic products.
The study’s findings have significant implications for human health, particularly for pregnant women and young children who may be more vulnerable to the effects of BPA. The authors of the study suggest that reducing exposure to BPA may be an important step in preventing sex-specific changes in metabolism and the immune system.
So, what can we do to reduce our exposure to BPA? One of the most effective ways is to avoid using plastic products that contain BPA, such as water bottles and food containers. Instead, we can opt for glass or stainless steel containers, which are safer and more environmentally friendly. We can also choose to buy food that is packaged in BPA-free materials, such as cardboard or paper.
Another way to reduce exposure to BPA is to avoid heating food in plastic containers, as this can cause the chemical to leach into the food. We can also avoid using plastic containers that are damaged or worn out, as these may be more likely to leach BPA into food and water.
The study’s findings also highlight the need for stricter regulations on the use of BPA in plastic products. Many countries have already banned the use of BPA in certain products, such as baby bottles and sippy cups, but more needs to be done to protect human health and the environment.
In conclusion, the study’s findings suggest that exposure to small amounts of BPA before birth can have significant effects on the development of males and females. The chemical can cause sex-specific changes in metabolism and the immune system, leading to the feminisation of males and the masculinisation of females. To reduce our exposure to BPA, we can take simple steps such as avoiding plastic products that contain BPA, choosing BPA-free food packaging, and avoiding heating food in plastic containers. We can also support stricter regulations on the use of BPA in plastic products to protect human health and the environment.
About the Author
