Exposure to the plastic chemical bisphenol A (BPA) is associated with more than double the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to French-Australian research.

In addition, the study suggests that the compound some countries have switched to as an alternative, bisphenol S (BPS), poses a similar risk.

In a case-cohort study of 755 participants (median age 47), researchers investigating insulin resistance looked at whether exposure to BPA and BPS — measured via urine samples at baseline and year three of follow-up — was associated with incidence of type 2 diabetes.

BPA is found in food containers, coatings inside canned goods and in thermal receipts.