What Does Plastic Have to Do With Obesity?

KANSAS CITY, Mo –  New research links a chemical found in many plastic products to a higher risk of obesity in kids.

BPA can be found in plastic food containers and in the lining of food cans.

Children and teens with the highest levels of BPA in their bodies were more than twice as likely to be obese as children with the lowest levels.  That’s according to the study in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Scientists have already been concerned about the effects of BPA since it is a endocrine disrupter, meaning it disrupts the hormonal system.

FOX 4 Medical Reporter Meryl Lin McKean talked with Dr. Jennifer Lowry of Children’s Mercy Hospital who says the new study only shows an association and doesn’t prove that BPA is a cause of obesity.