BPA Linked to Heart Disease and Diabetes

A new study published in Wednesday’s Journal of the American
Medical Association found that higher urinary concentrations of Bisphenol A, or
BPA, were associated with an increased prevalence of diabetes, liver-enzyme abnormalities, and cardiovascular disease.

Bisphenol A or BPA is chemical compound commonly used many
hard transparent or translucent plastics. In the past, experts have expressed
concerns that BPA may increase the likelihood of developmental and other health
problems.

Researchers for the recently published study estimated that
most Americans exposure to BPA exceeds U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
recommendations on a daily basis.

In April, following a report issued by the National
Toxicology Program, retail giants Wal-Mart and Toys R’ Us announced that they
would phase out products containing Bisphenol A. California has reportedly
considered banning the additive entirely and Canada began pulling the items
from the shelves months ago.

The effects of BPA exposure in humans is still a heated debated
and likely will be for some time. This new study clearly cast a shadow of doubt
on those who claim that current rates of BPA are completely safe. While researchers
do admit that more research does needs to be preformed to confirm the findings
expressed here, most will agree that this is a step in the right direction and
will eventually lead us to the truth about BPA.