A new study, published in Pediatrics, found children who have higher levels of Bisphenol A (BPA) had higher odds of obesity and abnormal levels of body fat.
“Studies in adults had shown an association between high BPA levels and obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, but little was known about its effects in children,” said Donna Eng, M.D., lead author of the study in a press release.
BPA is a chemical previously used in many products for kids, like baby bottles, plastic toys, protective coatings on metal food containers and dental sealants.
Researchers at the University of Michigan analyzed the levels of BPA found in children’s urine and then measured body fat, waist circumference, and cardiovascular and diabetes risk factors.
They found that a higher odd of obesity was associated with higher levels of urinary BPA. Children with higher BPA levels were also found to have an abnormal waist circumference-to-height radio.
“Our study suggests a possible link between BPA exposure and childhood obesity. We therefore need more longitudinal studies to determine if there is a causal link between BPA and excess body fat,” said Eng.
Researchers didn’t find a significant link to BPA and other chronic disease factors such as abnormal levels of cholesterol, insulin or glucose levels.
“Based on these results, BPA may not have adverse effects on cardiovascular and diabetes risk, but it’s certainly possible that the adverse effects of BPA could compound over time, with health effects that only later manifest in adulthood,” said Joyce Lee, M.D., M.P.H, associate professor of Pediatrics at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital.
Manufacturers have voluntarily recalled numerous BPA products because of a suspicion about the toxic effects on children and adults.
In July 2012, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced baby bottles and children’s drinking cups could no longer contain BPA. The restriction does not apply to other BPA containing products.
Researchers hope the study will prompt more research into BPA’s effects that can inform future policy regulating children’s consumer products.
