BISPHENOL A - APPLICATION, SOURCES OF EXPOSURE AND POTENTIAL RISKS IN INFANTS, CHILDREN AND PREGNANT WOMEN

Bisphenol A (BPA) is used in the chemical industry as a monomer in the production of plastics. It belongs to a group of compounds that disturb some of the functions of human body, the endocrine system in particular. Extensive use of BPA in manufacturing products that come in contact with food increases the risk of exposure to this compound, mainly through the digestive tract. Literature data indicate that exposure to bisphenol A even at low doses may result in adverse health effects. The greatest exposure to BPA is estimated among infants, children and pregnant women. The aim of this review is to show potential sources of exposure to bisphenol A and the adverse health effects caused by exposure to this compound in the group of particular risk.