What is BPA?

Bisphenol A is a chemical used to make polycarbonate plastic found in everyday products from baby bottles to DVDs to eyeglasses. It also is found in epoxy resins used in the lining of metal cans made in the United States for beer, soda and food.

What are the concerns?

Health advocates and scientists have argued that BPA, which is readily absorbed through food and drink containers, may cause cancer, diabetes, reproductive disorders, hyperactivity and autism. Tests have been conducted on laboratory animals; the effects of BPA on humans are not entirely known.

The main concern is the possible risk for infants and pregnant women.

What does the FDA say?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration contends that today's products containing BPA are safe and that exposure is well below the amount that may cause serious health concerns. In response to a new report, cited below, the FDA formed an agency-wide BPA task force in April to review and evaluate research.

Who says BPA isn't safe?

The National Toxicology Program, part of the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services' National Institutes of Health, released a draft report in April that found there is some concern that the chemical may cause breast and testicular cancers as well as other serious disorders. The report also found that "the possibility that [BPA] may alter human development cannot be dismissed," but that exposure to pregnant women and fetuses is a negligible concern.

Also in April, Canada banned the sale of baby bottles with BPA. States such as California and New Jersey are considering a similar ban. Florida does not track the use of BPA.

What does this mean?

It may be too soon to say whether products with BPA are harmful at the levels at which most of us are exposed, but there are steps you can take to reduce exposure:

•Look at the bottom of plastic containers, bottles and sippy cups for the recycling code (the number inside the triangle). Those with a No. 7 are made of polycarbonate and may contain BPA.

•Don't microwave those containers. Increased heat can cause the chemical to leach into food and drinks. If products are dishwasher safe, wash them on the top rack.

•Buy frozen or fresh fruit and vegetables to avoid using canned foods.

•Use glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic. Tempered glass won't break as easily. Buy products that say "BPA-free."

For information online, go to www.bisphenol-a.org; www.fda.gov;

Sources: Food and Drug Administration, KidsHealth

.