NC State Experts Can Address Human Health Questions About Bisphenol-A

Scientists at North Carolina State University can help explain a recent draft report from the National Toxicology Program that is raising a number of questions about the safety of bisphenol-A – a chemical found in baby bottles, water bottles, canned foods and an array of other consumer products. The report has led to confusion and concern about whether products containing the chemical could contribute to effects ranging from the early onset of puberty to cancer. NC State’s experts have the background and experience necessary to help clear up some of the confusion.

Dr. Gerald LeBlanc, head of the Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, 919/515-7404 or gerald_leblanc@ncsu.edu, has studied the effects of chemicals on human and environmental health for more than 20 years.

LeBlanc served as a toxicology expert on the Chapel Hill Bisphenol-A Expert Panel that was convened by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences to evaluate the potential human and environmental effects of bisphenol-A. The panel’s work was one of the key reports used by the National Toxicology Program in developing its draft report on bisphenol-A.

Dr. Heather Patisaul, assistant professor of zoology, 919/513-7567 or heather_patisaul@ncsu.edu, is a neuroendocrinologist who studies how bisphenol-A and other chemicals can disrupt the development of the reproductive system.

Patisaul explains that studies indicate bisphenol-A may disrupt the timing of pubertal onset and affect the capacity of females to successfully become pregnant. Patisaul can address questions on the link between reproductive health and bisphenol-A – as well as other endocrine disrupting chemicals.

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