| Event Information: |
Dr. Radhika Muzumdar will talk about the effects of substances found in plastics, e.g. BPA, etc., on the human body:
An endocrine-disrupting compound is defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as “an exogenous agent that interferes with synthesis, secretion, transport, metabolism, action, or elimination of natural blood-borne hormones that are present in the body and are responsible for homeostasis, reproduction, and developmental process.” There is a growing awareness that plastics, especially bisphenol A (BPA), are potential Endocrine disruptors. Results from animal models, human clinical observations, and epidemiological studies converge to implicate BPA as a significant concern to public health. Though epidemiological studies demonstrate an association between BPA and endocrine issues such as puberty, obesity and diabetes, a “causal” relationship is hard to establish in view of the almost ubiquitous nature of exposure. Over the past decade, our understanding of the mechanisms by which BPA exerts its effect has grown. This has led to an ongoing debate and discussion over the “safe levels” of these chemicals in the body, modes of exposure as well as the “vulnerable phases” of life when they are potentially more harmful. Till a definite relationship is established or an effective replacement to BPA is found, it is imperative that we limit our exposure to minimize the effects.
Points I plan to cover:
Extent of BPA exposure
BPA levels in population
Acceptable levels as per regulatory agencies
What is a “safe” BPA level?
What are the vulnerable phases in life?
What are the biological consequences?
Studies in animals and humans linking BPA to endocrine issues
How can we limit exposure?
Future directions |
