What are the effects of plasticizer-induced oxidative stress on male reproduction?
Plasticizers are polyphenolic compounds additives used to enhance the flexibility and toughness of plastics and are found in all “clear, heat-resistant, non-stick and unbreakable” plastics. A few plasticizers have been at the center of an industry-academia dispute over their toxicity and suitability for use. Bisphenol A Bisphenol A, an artificial additive is used to improve polycarbonate plastics and found in almost all disposable plasticware, toys and atmospheric dust. 90% of Americans are alleged to possess Bisphenol A in their blood primarily from eating food from plasticware or packaged in plastic containers. The National Institute of Health (NIH) had convened a toxicity panel, which evaluated the toxicity of bisphenol A from 2000-2004 and which expressed “some concern” over the use of the compound. Acting on this and other reports, in April 2008, the Canadian Govt. issued a ban on baby bottles and other infant-care products containing bisphenol A. The NOAEL dose for bisphenol A is
