The migration of low molecular weight compounds is one of the most
important problems associated with the packaging of plastics and other plastics
intended for contact with food products. Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most
common migration substances. Bisphenol A (BPA, 2,2-bis (4-hydroxyphenyl)
propane) is used in the production of containers, such as baby bottles and resins,
which line metal cans for food and drink. BPA is also used as a plasticizer to soften
and increase flexibility in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products. It also has medical
applications in dental sealants and composites used for filling. BPA attracts special
attention of scientists due to widespread use in food packaging. It has been
observed to occur in large quantities in human body fluids, disrupting the endocrine
system. Developing fetuses, infants, children and pregnant women are most at risk
of BPA exposure. There are also some concerns about the negative effects of BPA
exposure in adult men, as bisphenol A may cause production abnormalities, thereby
disrupting sex hormone production and fertility. An extensive literature search
showed 49 studies linking BPA to human health. This review presents literature
showing the relationship between BPA exposure and adverse health effects in the
perinatal, pediatric and adult periods, including effects on reproduction, metabolic
diseases and other health effects. These studies cover both prenatal and postnatal
exposure, and include several study regimens and population types, which provides
increasing support that BPA exposure can be harmful to humans, especially
regarding behavioral effects in children.