May 1, 2008 7:08 pm US/Eastern
Howard Co. Takes Stand Against Chemical In Bottles
HOWARD COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) ―
Howard County health officials are taking a strong stand against a chemical found in plastic bottles.
Studies have found health risks associated with the chemical.
Peggy Lee reports it is found in baby bottles, as well as other products, and county leaders are making changes in one of their programs.
When it comes to your baby's health, parents say only the best will do.
But could the product providing your child with nourishment also be giving them something dangerous as well?
"It's something that we're going to be looking out for and make sure that the bottles that we do use don't have the BPA that are giving off," said parent Jason Smith.
Concern is growing over bisphenol A or BPA which is used to make clear, rigid plastics. It can be found in various plastic bottles, including those geared toward babies.
Lab tests show BPA can lead to tumors, early puberty and behavioral changes.
"BPA is actually an estrogen mimicker. It mimics estrogen, one of the natural reproductive hormones in the body," said Howard County Health Officer Peter Beilenson.
Because of this, Howard County says their WIC program is changing policy on the products they give to families.
"One of the things we do is provide bottles. And so what we're changing today is only provide BPA-free bottles," said Beilenson.
Philip Vu and his family became aware of BPA two years ago. As WIC participants, they're happy with the new decision.
"I really feel this is a wonderful program, and I'm really up for that," said Vu.
While higher levels of BPA is found in harder plastic bottles, like baby bottles, health officials say BPA is found in softer plastic bottles, like ones that carry water.
To find out if a bottle has BPA, look at its base. If you see the number seven or three inside the recycling triangle, it's best to avoid it.
Doctors say heating bottles with BPA allows it to transfer to food and liquids 55 times faster. Baby bottles are typically heated before they are used.
The European market has banned BPA products. Last month, Canada announced it was also considering banning BPA.
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