Health Risks of Plastics Compound Among Children

Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates are chemicals in a group known as endocrine disruptors – chemicals in plastic that interfere with the body's endocrine (hormone) system. BPA and phthalate exposure has been linked to reproductive tract changes, neuro-developmental delays, behavioral issues, obesity, asthma, allergies, fertility problems and heart disease. Leonardo Trasande, from New York University School of Medicine  (New York, USA), and colleagues analyzed data on 710 children and adolescents, ages 6 to 19 years, collected in the 2009-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).  The team was particularly interested in the measurements of urinary BPA, and albumin, a protein that is not normally found in urine but when present (albuminuria) may signal kidney disease.  The team found that low levels of BPA as were identified in this national survey can increase oxidative stress and inflammation that promotes protein leakage into the urine, which is a biomarker for early renal impairment and future risk of developing coronary heart disease.  Observing that: “an association of BPA exposure with low-grade albuminuria is consistent with previous results found in Chinese adults and documents this in children in the United States,” the study authors submit that: “Our findings broaden the array of adverse effects of BPA to include endothelial dysfunction as evidenced by the low-grade albuminuria and support proactive efforts to prevent harmful exposures.”