BISPHENOLA - LEVELS IN THE DRINKING WATER SYSTEMS AND URINE OF ADULTS LIVING IN ANKARA-TURKEY

Abstract

Although bisphenol A (BPA) is toxic, it is extensively reported in the environment and in consumer products. The purpose of this study is to determine and compare the levels of BPA in drinking water samples and urine. The present study included 70 participants with no systemic chronic disease or known BPA exposure. BPA was analyzed in their drinking water and urine samples using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS). The participants filled out questionnaires on their sociodemographic information and possible exposure history. All urine and drinking water samples demonstrated detectable BPA levels, which for drinking water samples ranged from 0.03 to 1.14 mu g/L; the median value was 0.25 mu g/L. The BPA levels in urine samples ranged from 0.03 to 0.48 mu g/L; the median value was 0.16 mu g/L. There was no statistically significant difference between the BPA levels in drinking water samples; sociodemographic characteristics; drinking water type; dairy packaging type; variables in food storage containers; and the BPA levels in urine samples (p > 0.05 for each). Our study is the first to compare BPA levels in drinking water and urine samples. People may be exposed to BPA by multiple sources, in addition to drinking water. More comprehensive epidemiological studies are necessary.