Briefly comment on the research to determine the toxicity of bisphenol A (BPA)

Question

Also, explain why this topic represents a challenge to scientific integrity and credibility and the implications for national and international policies on this compound that depend on the research.

Answer 1

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been implicated as a hormone (estrogen) mimic and disruptor in various species of mammals and in humans. Used in the manufacture of many plastic products, it is liable to leach out of the products, especially drinking bottles, and be ingested along with food, water, baby formula, etc. There is more than a 90% chance of the presence of BPA in any American's body. Research by Patricia Hunt at Case Western Reserve University and many others have shown that BPA is a potent hormone disruptor in mice. Recently, BPA has been implicated as a correlative factor in diabetes and cardiovascular disease. European studies have shown that BPA is also harming numerous wildlife species. Yet, there are different opinions, presumably based upon whether you look at peer-reviewed scientific studies or the opinions of industry which tell us that unless you have human-based evidence, we are perfectly safe. This once again warns us to be sure to enquire about the funding sources of research where the profit motive is strong. As of 2010, six major U.S. plastics manufacturers have pledged to stop using PBA. In 2008, Canada became the first nation to declare BPA toxic. With conflicting information from industry and federally sponsored research, the EPA and FDA are in the process of trying to formulate policy for managing the risk from BPA.