The National Institutes of Health's National Toxicology Program (NTP) released a report today that acknowledges adverse health effects associated with exposure to Bisphenol-A, according to The Washington Post. Bisphenol-A is a chemical substance common in plastics and in the lining of food cans. According to the Post, the report, released in draft form, "Says exposure to the chemical may be linked to breast cancer, prostate cancer, early puberty in girls and such behavioral changes as hyperactivity." NTP's findings are significant because, until now, the federal government has downplayed the effects of Bisphenol-A. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration — which, like the National Institutes of Health, is part of the Department of Health and Human Services — has said Bisphenol-A does not pose a "safety concern at the current exposure level." But an ongoing investigation by the House Energy and Commerce Committee has shown that FDA relied on industry-funded studies to make its determination. Meanwhile, public health advocates and scientists outside of government have raised concern for years about the safety of Bisphenol-A. Unfortunately, because NTP cannot regulate chemicals, FDA still holds all the power on this issue. Stay tuned to Reg•Watch to see if FDA issues a response. Reg•Watch Update: In Response to Bisphenol-A Studies, Retailers Will Remove Products"