In a cross-sectional analysis, high urine concentrations of a commonly used industrial chemical were associated with diabetes and coronary events.Bisphenol A (BPA) is added to the plastic used in products such as baby bottles and to the epoxy that lines food cans. Most individuals in industrialized countries are thought to have BPA in their bodies. In humans, BPA may bind to estrogen receptors, and concern has arisen as to whether it might adversely affect health.
In this study from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003–2004, investigators measured total concentration of BPA in urine samples collected from 1455 adult participants and determined whether urine BPA concentrations were associated with self-reported histories of physician-diagnosed arthritis, cancer, cardiovascular disease (angina, coronary heart disease, or heart attack), diabetes, liver disease, respiratory disease (asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema), stroke, or thyroid disease. The odds ratio for a diagnosis of cardiovascular disease or diabetes was 1.39 for each 1 standard-deviation increase in urine BPA concentration (P<0.001>
Comment
Despite recent assertions by the FDA of the safety of bisphenol A, criticism is mounting about its use in consumer products because of its potential neurologic and reproductive health effects. By linking BPA concentrations to increased risks for diabetes and heart disease, these new data raise questions about the current assumptions and assessments the FDA has made. These findings should stimulate additional studies into the potential health effects of BPA.
— JoAnne M. Foody, MD
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