Bisphenol A (BPA)

Why in news?

• A recent study revealed that Bisphenol A, a chemical used for softening plastics, shortens the mosquito life cycle and leads to population explosion.

More about the News:

• The study establishes that the human-made chemical can significantly shorten the breeding time of southern house mosquitoes (Culex quinquefasciatus), a major carrier of the West Nile virus, Rift Valley fever virus and avian pox in tropical and subtropical countries, and thereby aid in its quick multiplication.
• This is a matter of concern as most urban wastewater canals, which serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes, are choked with BPA-laden plastic waste.

About Bisphenol A (BPA):

• Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical produced in large quantities for use primarily in the production of polycarbonate plastics.
• It is found in various products including shatterproof windows, eyewear, water bottles, and epoxy resins that coat some metal food cans, bottle tops, and water supply pipes.

How does BPA get into the body?

• The primary source of exposure to BPA for most people is through the diet. While air, dust, and water are other possible sources of exposure, BPA in food and beverages accounts for the majority of daily human exposure.
• Bisphenol A can leach into food from the protective internal epoxy resin coatings of canned foods and from consumer products such as polycarbonate tableware, food storage containers, water bottles, and baby bottles.
• The degree to which BPA leaches from polycarbonate bottles into liquid may depend more on the temperature of the liquid or bottle, than the age of the container. BPA can also be found in breast milk.

Impacts:

• When ingested, the chemical disrupts the endocrine system by interfering with the hormones and affects the brain and prostate gland of foetuses, infants and children.
• Several studies establish that the chemical can cause high blood pressure, diabetes and cardiovascular disease in adults.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Consider the following statements regarding Bisphenol A (BPA):

1. It is a chemical produced for use primarily in the production of polycarbonate plastics

2. BPA in food and beverages accounts for the majority of daily human exposure.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

                      C

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