Shining a Light on BP-3 Exposure: Sunscreen Chemical Measured in U.S. Population
2008
Study on BP-3 Exposure in the U.S. Population
Sample size: 2517
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Tibbetts John
Primary Institution: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Hypothesis
What is the extent of human exposure to benzophenone-3 (BP-3) in the U.S. population?
Conclusion
The study found that BP-3 was detected in 96.8% of urine samples, with higher concentrations in females and non-Hispanic whites.
Supporting Evidence
- BP-3 was detected in 96.8% of urine samples.
- Mean BP-3 concentration was 22.9 μg/L.
- Adult females had BP-3 concentrations 3.5 times greater than adult males.
- Non-Hispanic whites were 6.8 times more likely to have high BP-3 concentrations than non-Hispanic blacks.
Takeaway
The study shows that most people in the U.S. have a chemical from sunscreen in their pee, especially women and lighter-skinned people.
Methodology
Analyzed urine samples from the NHANES 2003–2004 survey.
Participant Demographics
Participants included non-Hispanic black, non-Hispanic white, and Mexican American individuals.
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