Summary: There has been a vehement debate about BPA’s effects upon the human health. In fact, BPA is the most controversial chemical in consumer products. BPA is a chemical in consumer products used to make polycarbonate plastic, cans, receipts, and dental sealants. A group of toxicologists state that BPA is harming human health; whereas, biologists studying the chemical disagrees. However, both sides agree that exposure is ubiquitous in which 90% of Americans tested have traces of BPA in their body. Toxicologists argue that it acts like estrogen and ergo disrupts the endocrine system and hormonal development as well as neuron development. Some studies even suggest that higher exposure levels increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and disease. Other scientists, however, argue that there’s not enough evidence to establish a conclusion.
Reflection: This article was really interesting because I did not know about BPA’s existence until now. I am confident that I am part of the 90% of the Americans who have traces of BPA in their body. Although the information and arguments provided by each side is important and understandable, it’s still really difficult to decide whether if it is harmful or not because of the lack of evidence. However, I am not extremely concerned about having BPA because both sides are researching this chemical to guarantee everyone’s safety.