This documentary brings up a number of interesting facts about the effects of chemicals, specifically phthalates and Bisphenol A on male reproductive systems and the declining male birth rate.  With the declining male birth rates and the rise of male infertility, we are experiencing the most rapid evolution our species has seen. Here are a few of the points that the documentary makes on each.

Phthalates (flail-ates)

• phthalates & BPA are proven endocrine disruptors
• phthalates used to make soft toys for children, meant to be chewed on
• 3/4 of all cosmetics, skin creams, hair conditioners contain them
• marketed as a clean product, difficult to think of it as dirty
• dehp is a phthalates found in pvc vinyl. proven endocrine disrupter
• pvc vinyl is used to make IV tubing, catheters, bloodbags
• many studies have proven that this leaches into the bodies of infants/children, may receive 200 times the acceptable level over however long they are hospitalized for. May have adverse affect on reproductive tract
• some hospitals are replacing pvc vinyl to reduce these effects.

Bisphenol A (BPA)

• bisphenol a is used in polycarbonate – used from baby bottles to dvd’s.
• in 1940′s found it acted as estrogen in lab animals, then larger discovery made as a can liner and other commercial applications.
• Estrogen-mimicing effects are now coming back to haunt us

A commentator in the documentary states that a mom or a dad “shouldn’t have to be a chemical engineer”, and it is unfair to try to make a parent play that role. In addition, almost all studies that show that bpa & phthalates have no effect were studies funded by the chemical industry.

The chemical lobby is one of the most powerful in the world; since 1976 the US has banned just five chemicals.  You’ll also see a surprising statement from the FDA before a congressional committee that they don’t solicit independent, third-party studies.

In Canada we have banned BPA in baby bottles, Health Canada may be giving better information to our government than complementary US agencies are giving to theirs.

Of 80,000 chemicals in use, 85% of them have never been tested for impacts on human body.

These are just a few of the key points that the documentary brings up. If the documentary isn’t playing above, click here.

Tags: Bisphenol A, bpa male fertility, documentary bpa, phthalate, pthlate, the disappearing male

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