What Is Plastic Made of and Other Terrifying Plastic Facts | Charlotte Hacker, MS, PhD #255

Dog Cancer Answers

Dr. Charlotte Hacker, a wildlife biologist, has some worrying news about the chemicals commonly found in plastics, such as BPA and phthalates. These and other harsh chemicals in plastics are known to disrupt endocrine systems in both humans and dogs.

From developmental issues to cancer, Dr. Hacker outlines the risks associated with plastic exposure and gives practical advice on how to reduce your dog's contact with harmful plastics.

Topics Covered:

• Chemicals found in plastics (BPA, phthalates, alkylphenols) and their harmful effects on health.
• How plastics affect dogs, particularly in relation to cancer and developmental issues.
• How plastic breaks down over time and releases harmful substances into the environment.
• The history of plastics and how they became so ubiquitous.
• Practical steps you can take to reduce plastic exposure for your dog, including alternatives to plastic toys, bowls, and containers.
• The impact of plastic exposure on wildlife and the environment.
• The difference between U.S. and EU regulations on plastic safety and how consumers can advocate for change.

Key Takeaways:

• BPA and phthalates, commonly found in plastic, are known endocrine disruptors that may contribute to cancer and other health issues.
• Dogs are particularly vulnerable to plastic exposure due to proximity to plastic surfaces and ingestion through chewing.
• Switching from plastic to glass, ceramic, or stainless steel for food storage and bowls can reduce exposure.
• Consumers can influence change by choosing safer products and supporting stricter regulations.

Related Resources:

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Related Videos:

Dr. Charlotte Hacker on genetic mutations and how they cause cancer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqR2Yd2DiHo

Dr. Lauren Trepanier is proving the connection between pollution and dog cancer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vlsa6Rrr-8s

Dr. Nicole Sheehan on how to try to detox your dog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTnVUrFd3Wk

Related Links:

Dr. Hacker’s article about plastics and dog cancer risk: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/causes-and-prevention/can-plastic-cause-cancer-in-dogs/

Lawn chemicals also pose a risk to dogs: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/causes-and-prevention/lawn-chemicals-herbicides-and-pesticides/

Filtering your water is a good idea: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/causes-and-prevention/pharmaceuticals-in-drinking-water/

Don’t sear that meat, and why kibble might be a cancer risk: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/causes-and-prevention/acrylamide-in-dog-food/

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction from Molly Jacobson

02:45 - What is BPA and Why Should We Be Concerned?

05:15 - BPA in Food and Household Products

07:00 - Other Dangerous Chemicals in Plastics

10:30 - The History of Plastic and Its Rise to Ubiquity

15:00 - Environmental Impact: Plastics and Wildlife

19:00 - Plastics and Cancer in Dogs

24:00 - How to Reduce Plastic Exposure in Dogs

29:45 - Final Thoughts: Don't Panic, What You Can Do

40:00 - Podcast Outro

Get to know Charlotte Hacker, MS, PhD: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/charlotte-hacker-ms-phd/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

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