Context: Recent studies have reported that ‘Bisphenol A’, may shorten the life cycle of a mosquito and lead to a population explosion.
About Bisphenol A:
Bisphenol A is a synthetically obtained colourless, crystalline organic compound that occurs in the solid phase belonging to the diphenylmethane group.
It is soluble in organic solvents but poorly dissolves in water
It is also used as eyewear glasses. It is a chemical is widely used to soften plastics, paints, and other products.
It is known to impair reproduction and development in aquatic organisms.
Its exposure is delayed larval development and pupation time in common fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster).
Uses of Bisphenol A :
BPA polycarbonate plastics are very sturdy in nature and are used to make large variants of microwave-proof utensils.
It is used as a material for safety glasses, bulletproof windows and helmets.
Bisphenol A acts as a component in epoxy resins that are very good coating agents and therefore is used for the protective coating of pipelines and to cover the inner surface of food cans.
It is used in many medical devices such as heart-lung machines, incubators, artificial kidneys, dental fillers, and sealants.
It is also used as eyewear glasses , due to their optical clarity.
Environmental impacts of Bisphenol A:
BPA can enter the environment directly through the leaching of chemicals or degradation of materials containing bisphenol A and may render the landunfertile and barren making it unsuitable for agriculture.
It affects the growth and reproduction of marine life.
It causes endocrine effects in fish, amphibians, and reptiles.
Adverse effects of Bisphenol A on human health:
When ingested, the chemical disrupts the endocrine system by interfering with the hormones and affecting the brain and prostate gland of foetuses, infants, and children.
It can cause high blood pressure, diabetes and cardiovascular disease in adults.
BPA is a xenoestrogen and mimics estrogen present in the body, thus exhibiting hormone-like properties.
It can indirectly aid in the spread of vector-borne diseases in humans and animals.
