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Dear Nida Saleem
Have you noticed that girls are growing up faster than they did a few decades ago?
A report by Sandra Steingraber, Ph.D shows that young girls are maturing sexually a year or two earlier than in the 1960's. This is a problem because early puberty is a risk factor for:
- Breast cancer
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Conduct disorders and delinquency
- High-risk behavior
- Lower academic achievement
- Mental health issues
- Violent victimization
Researchers are beginning to point to environmental contamination as a cause, citing the presence of synthetic chemicals, which act like estrogen, in common everyday products.
BPA, a chemical found in many different kinds of plastics, has been shown to cause changes in behavior, the brain, the prostate gland, the mammary gland, and the age at which females attain puberty.
Another group of chemicals known as phthalates, also found in plastics, have shown to effect the hormone system, cause reproductive and genital defects, be linked to premature birth and early onset of puberty, and may lower sperm count and are associated with the risk factors for testicular cancer.
Recently, media reports highlighted parents' concerns about BPA and phthalates in baby bottles, teethers, and toys. Parent demand for safe bottles quickly emptied store shelves.
In an effort to help the families of the Greater Capital Region, Community Cradle will be sponsoring a Baby Bottle Exchange as part of the Safe Babies Event at Crossgates Mall on November 15.
And because breastfeeding is BPA free, a lactation consultant will be available at the event to answer your questions.
Please help us spread the word!
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