Bisphenols and breast cancer

Bisphenols are a group of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) used mainly in the production of polycarbonate plastics, epoxy resins and increasingly, flame retardants. Low levels of bisphenols are widespread in the environment and in human tissues and body fluids, including breast milk. Bisphenols have been linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer; this is thought to be associated with their ability to mimic the natural hormone oestradiol. Animal and in vitro (breast cell culture) studies have shown bisphenol A (BPA) can increase breast cancer growth and development and potentially contribute to breast cancer onset. BPA is now restricted for many uses, resulting in its replacement with other, structurally similar bisphenols. These bisphenol substitutes are currently unregulated. Studies suggest they have similar properties to BPA and constitute “regrettable substitution”. Bisphenols may also have adverse effects on babies in the womb, which could potentially lead to breast cancer during adulthood. This should be investigated further as a matter of urgency.