Experts are calling for a ban on a chemical used in many baby bottles, which could lead to breast cancer later on in life.
Professor Ana Soto, an expert in cancer development at Ulster University, has called for the ban of the 'gender bending' chemical bisphenol A (BPA), and believes there is now enough evidence to persuade the government to introduce a precautionary ban.
At the moment, the chemical is used in a huge variety of products, including baby bottles, and can even be found in the lining of food and drink cans. At ParentDish, we've already looked at the alternatives to bottles with BPA, which you can find here.
Scientists have been concerned about the effects of BPA for a long time, as it's believed that it mimics the female hormone oestrogen. Experts believe this could lead to liver damage, obesity, diabetes, fertility problems and breast cancer.
Other countries have already taken steps towards banning the chemical, including Denmark, Canada and three US States.
Most of the current studies are based on animals and, in particular, for Professor Soto's study, rats. With huge brands like Boots and Mothercare still stocking bottles with BPA, it may be difficult to persuade the government to implement new rules.
However, another recent study by Tufts University highlighted the number of people contaminated with BPA, whilst a third from Rome links BPA to endometriosis, a condition that affects the fertility of two million women in the UK.
Do you think BPA should be banned?
Source: Daily Mail