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A latest finding from the National Toxicology Program, part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, suggests that a chemical used in manufacturing plastic bottles and also baby feeding bottles could be linked to a range of hormonal problems. The chemical villain is found in most of the polycarbonate packaging churned out around us. It includes shatterproof bottles, compact discs, some dental sealants, and food and packaging plastics. And of course, baby bottles and the plastic lining of baby feeds. The chemical leaches out of water bottles, the lining of cans and other items made with it. The villain is called BPA or bisphenol A. What we might get from it is early puberty and prostate cancer according to the preliminary findings. National Toxicology Program's experiments on rats found precancerous tumors, urinary tract problems and early puberty when the animals were fed or injected with low doses of the plastics chemical bisphenol A. Though, these are preliminary findings, the researchers say that possible effects on humans cannot be dismissed. It also stressed the need for further research. It said:

"There is some concern for neural and behavioral effects in fetuses, infants and children at current human exposures." The findings expressed concern about exposure in these populations, "based on effects in the prostate gland, mammary gland, and an earlier age for puberty in females."

The American Chemistry Council, which represents manufacturers, said the report 'affirms' that there are no serious direct adverse effects of bisphenol on human reproduction and development. They also noted the preliminary nature of the report. Among the manufacturers of bisphenol are Dow Chemical Co. and BASF Group. The report was greeted by some environmental groups as confirmation of their concerns. Anila Jacob of the Environmental Working Group said,

" NTP's decision corrects the scientific record. It reflects a significant body of science showing that BPA may play a larger role than previously thought in a host of common health problems."

The National Toxicology Program with this report has brought out more concerns than any previous standpoints.

Rep. John Dingell, a Michigan Democrat and chairman of the House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee said that the report contradicts FDA's long standing view that BPA was safe. Congressional representatives have asked the FDA to reconsider its stand for the sake of infants and children.

Though no government has restricted or banned its use so far, Canada is seriously considering all the implications. The Globe and Mail newspaper reported that the Canadian health ministry was ready to declare BPA a dangerous substance, making it the first regulatory body in the world to reach such a determination. The decision might come in a day or two.

As another, chemical agent seems to bite the dust, do you think it's time to go back to more natural alternatives for the sake of our children's health?