Chemical Linked to Low Sperm Count, Obesity and Cancer Found in Dummies, Tests Find
London – A chemical linked to health concerns including low sperm count, obesity, and cancer has been detected in a range of baby dummies (pacifiers), according to autonomous testing commissioned by The Guardian. The chemical, bisphenol S (BPS), a common substitute for the now-banned bisphenol A (BPA), was found in 90% of the dummies tested, raising fresh questions about the safety of infant products.
The findings, released today, highlight a potential unintended result of efforts to remove BPA from baby products. While BPS was initially considered a safer choice,growing research suggests it shares similar hormone-disrupting properties and may pose comparable health risks. Experts warn that widespread exposure to BPS, particularly during critical developmental stages, could have long-term consequences for children’s health.
The inquiry, conducted by analytical testing company ALS, examined 22 popular baby dummies from 13 different brands sold in the UK. BPS was detected in 20 of the dummies, with levels varying between brands.The chemical was found in dummies made from silicone, natural rubber latex, and thermoplastic elastomers.
“BPS is an endocrine disruptor, meaning it can interfere with the body’s hormone system,” explained Dr. Laura Vandenberg, a professor of environmental health sciences at the University of massachusetts Amherst, who was not involved in the testing but reviewed the findings. “Exposure to endocrine disruptors, even at low doses, can have adverse effects on development, reproduction, and metabolism.”
Research has linked BPS exposure to a range of health problems, including reduced sperm quality in males, increased risk of obesity, and potential links to certain cancers. A 2023 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that BPS exposure was associated with altered thyroid hormone levels in pregnant women.
Manufacturers argue that BPS is used in small quantities and is considered safe by regulatory bodies.Though, critics point to the limitations of current safety assessments, which frequently enough fail to account for the cumulative effects of exposure to multiple endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
The Guardian’s investigation comes amid growing calls for stricter regulation of chemicals in baby products. Consumer groups are urging manufacturers to phase out BPS and other potentially harmful substances,and for governments to implement more comprehensive testing and safety standards. Parents concerned about BPS exposure can find further data and resources at theguardian.com/tips.
