Prenatal exposure to plastic chemicals may develop depression in boys

Baby boys exposed to a common chemical used in plastics before delivery are more likely to develop symptoms of anxiety and depression at the age of 10-12, a new study has revealed. BPA (Bisphenol A) is a component of some plastics found in food containers, plastic water bottles, dental sealants and thermal receipt paper. The new study, published in the journal Environmental Research examined early life exposure to the chemical BPA.

A previous study reported that prenatal exposure to BPA was associated with emotionally reactive and aggressive behaviour and more symptoms of anxiety and depression in boys aged between seven to nine. Frederica Perera, researcher at the Columbia University, and her co-investigators followed 241 non-smoking pregnant women and their children and to measure the amount of BPA that ... Read full story