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The industrial chemical Bisphenol A, which has been
linked to developmental and reproductive problems and mimics
estrogen, is present in roughly 91 percent of the Canadian
population, particularly in teens aged 12 to 19.
Statistics
Canada released new data last week showing how pervasive
chemicals such as BPA and mercury are in the country's population.
The Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS)
tested a representative sample of 5,600 Canadians aged 6 to
79 between 2007 and 2009, discovering that BPA and mercury
were detected in the vast majority of participants.
The urine of 91 percent of those in the study contained detectable
levels of BPA, the chemical used in polycarbonate plastic
and epoxy resins used in the lining of canned foods, as well
as in hard plastic bottles and food containers.
Many are concerned about its impact on foetuses, infants
and children, where it can cause developmental problems, as
well as cancer, diabetes and other ailments. It is classified
in the chemical category of gender benders because it mimics
estrogen.
BPA has found itself in the spotlight in recent years, with
some states and cities banning its use in baby bottles and
childrens' products. According to Statistics Canada, higher
concentrations of BPA were detected in the urine of children
aged 6 to 10, compared to adults aged 40 to 79. Teens aged
12 to 19 showed the highest concentration of BPA.
The mean concentration of BPA across the Canadian population
was 1.16 micrograms per liter, in line with international
research pegging mean concentrations at between 1 - 3 micrograms
per liter.
Mercury was detected in the blood samples of 88 percent of
Canadians, present in higher concentrations in adults aged
20 to 79. The primary transfer of mercury from the environment
to the human population is through the consumption of seafood.
Mercury can also cause developmental problems for foetuses
and children, which has prompted governments to warn pregnant
women and those who may become pregnant, about the consumption
of fish and shellfish.
Statistics Canada also reported last week that blood levels
of lead in the general population have fallen dramatically
since last measured 30 years ago, although it is detected
in 100 percent of the population. Less than 1 percent of participants
in the 2007-2009 survey had blood concentration levels at
or near the intervention level - 10 micrograms per deciliter
of blood - compared to 27 percent in 1978-79. The mean concentration
was 1.34 micrograms per deciliter.
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