BPA in receipts can affect male fertility

One study published in the July 22, 2010 issue of Reproductive Toxicology showed that bisphenol A or BPA in men has been associated with decreased semen quality and increased sperm damage.

The study led by Meeker J.D. and colleagues at the University of Michigan studied 190 men recruited through an infertility clinic found 89 percent of men had been contaminated with BPA.

BPA was associated with increased risk of declines in sperm concentration, motility, and morphology, the reseachers found.

How to prevent this chemical from entering your system?

We used to think plastic chemical is found in food containers like water bottles, canned foods and  and infant formulas.  But a new study discorved that BPA is high in cash register receipts.

BPA is an endocrine disruptor that is similar to estrogen in chemical structure.  It is officially reconized that BPA contamination or pollution can be particularly harmful to young children.

The study led by researchers from the University of Missouri and commissioned by the Environmental Working Group found all but seven out of 36 receipts collected from all merchants including McDonald's, KFC .Walmart, Safeway among others contain BPA.

The highest level of bisphenol A was found in a receipt collected from Safeway, which was 2.8 percent by weight of the receipt.

But compared to the levels of BPA in infant formulas and canned foods, the levels of this chemical in the receipts from cash registers are much higher.

Studies have shown that even extremely low levels of BPA can be harmful, particularly to young children.  BPA is known to affect the development of the brain, the behavior and reproductive system. It has been linked to increased risk of breast cancer among others.

Not just receipts have high levels of BPA.  Studies have shown that thermal paper used to print receipts when recycled can get into your toilet paper.

By all means, you should try to avoid contacting the receipts. Toss any in trash cans if you don't need to keep it, instead of recycling it.

Jimmy Downs