Bisphenol A as a Reproductive Toxicant: An Interpretive Approach from Occupational Nursing
Abstract
Introduction: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a ubiquitous endocrine disruptor whose occupational exposure poses a risk to workers across multiple industrial sectors. The revision of Royal Decree (RD) 665/1997 through RD 612/2024 requires specific protection against reprotoxic agents; however, a gap remains between scientific evidence and health surveillance protocols within Occupational Nursing.
Aim: To analyse the scientific evidence regarding BPA as a reprotoxic disruptor from the perspective of Occupational Nursing, identifying implications for health surveillance and preventive education among exposed workers.
Method: A qualitative interpretative analysis was conducted following Braun and Clarke’s six-step approach based on a systematic review retrieved from PubMed using the MeSH combination “Bisphenol A Compounds” AND “Endocrine Disruptors.” Study quality was assessed according to PRISMA criteria.
Results: Five categories of effects were identified: alterations in female fertility, alterations in male fertility, effects on assisted reproduction, gestational and foetal effects, and other endocrine effects. From the analysis, four thematic categories emerged relevant to Occupational Nursing: reproductive health surveillance, protection during exposure, detection of endocrine disruption symptoms, and health education and prevention.
Conclusions: BPA represents a significant reprotoxic risk for workers. Occupational Nurses must ensure the early detection of endocrine disruption symptoms, provide comprehensive health education, and participate in risk assessment processes. This analysis reinforces the nursing role in occupational health, aligning practice with RD 612/2024 and current trends in reproductive protection at work.
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