All articles tagged with #forever chemicals
A sweeping AP investigation finds that PFAS, the so‑called forever chemicals, are quietly contaminating drinking water wells across the United States, including many private wells that homeowners may not test or even know are contaminated, raising health concerns and exposing gaps in monitoring and accountability that communities are pushing to close.
A Swedish study analyzed blood from 907 newly diagnosed MS patients and 907 controls, measuring 24 PFAS compounds and seven PCB byproducts. Higher levels of PFAS (notably PFOS) and certain PCB byproducts were linked to roughly double the odds of an MS diagnosis, with the strongest risk when multiple PFAS/byproducts were present, indicating a chemical ‘toxic synergy.’ A gene variant associated with lower MS risk amplified the effect of PFOS exposure, suggesting gene–environment interactions. PFOS and hydroxylated PCBs can cross the blood–brain barrier and may trigger oxidative stress in the brain, potentially contributing to MS symptoms. The study underscores considering chemical mixtures, not single substances, in disease risk; it was published in Environment International.
New research links exposure to 'forever chemicals' like PFOS and PCBs to an increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis, highlighting the long-term health risks of these persistent environmental toxins and the importance of reducing exposure.
Research shows certain human gut bacteria can absorb and store PFAS, 'forever chemicals' linked to health issues, opening potential for probiotic treatments to help detoxify these persistent toxins from the body.
A study suggests that beta-glucan fibre in oats, barley, and rye can bind to and help remove PFAS 'forever chemicals' from the body, with a nearly 10% reduction observed after four weeks of pre-meal supplementation, though further research is needed.
A study published in Nature Geoscience reveals that certain areas in the U.S. and other countries are hot spots for PFAS, or "forever chemicals," with concentrations exceeding recommended levels in water samples. These chemicals, used in various household items, have been linked to health problems. The study found that over 69% of surface water and 33,900 groundwater samples worldwide contained more PFAS than Canada's minimum standard, with the U.S. being home to several hot spots. The Biden administration has announced the first enforceable drinking water standard for PFAS in the U.S., aiming to address the issue of contaminated drinking water.
A study found that people who frequently consume seafood, particularly shrimp and lobster, may face heightened exposure to toxic "forever chemicals" known as PFAS. These synthetic compounds, linked to various cancers, have contaminated water resources and the species that inhabit them. The study, focusing on seafood from coastal New Hampshire, revealed high PFAS levels in shrimp and lobster, prompting concerns about the potential health risks associated with seafood consumption, especially for vulnerable populations such as pregnant individuals and children.
A new study has found concerning levels of toxic PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in seafood, particularly in shrimp, lobster, and canned tuna. PFAS are human-made substances that remain in the environment for a long time and have been associated with serious health issues. While the study does not suggest avoiding seafood entirely, it highlights the potential risks of PFAS exposure for those with high-seafood diets. The research emphasizes the need for more investigation into the effects of these chemicals in humans and the importance of reducing PFAS exposure through various sources, including drinking water and food packaging.
A new U.S. study warns that frequent consumption of seafood may increase the risk of exposure to "forever chemicals" known as PFAS, which are linked to various health issues. The research, focusing on New Hampshire residents, found high levels of PFAS in shrimp and lobster, with shellfish being particularly susceptible due to their feeding and living habits. The study recommends stricter public health guidelines for seafood consumption, especially for vulnerable groups, while emphasizing the importance of balanced seafood consumption for its health benefits. The need for safety guidelines is urgent in coastal regions like New England, where seafood is integral to the culture, and there are currently no federal guidelines for PFAS contamination in seafood.
A study led by Dartmouth suggests that frequent seafood consumption may lead to increased exposure to PFAS, "forever chemicals." The findings highlight the need for stricter public health guidelines on safe seafood consumption, particularly in coastal regions like New England. The study measured PFAS concentrations in popular marine species and found that shrimp and lobster had the highest levels. With no current safety guidelines for PFAS in seafood, the study emphasizes the importance of understanding the risk-benefit tradeoff for seafood consumption, especially for vulnerable populations.
The Biden administration has established the first national standard to limit "forever chemicals" in drinking water, aiming to reduce exposure to per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are linked to various health problems. The new standard sets legally enforceable limits for five specific PFAS chemicals and provides funding to help water systems comply. While environmentalists see this as a monumental step forward, some critics argue that the cost of compliance may outweigh the public health benefits, and there are calls for broader regulation covering the entire class of PFAS chemicals.
Arizona's Supreme Court ruled to enforce a century-old near-total abortion ban, sparking protests and a potential ballot measure to protect abortion rights, while the EPA has set limits on "forever chemicals" in drinking water for the first time, aiming to address health risks. President Biden will meet with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida, but a rift over a steel deal may overshadow the visit. Additionally, new data shows that young adults who started vaping as teens have not quit, with rates increasing among this age group.
Dutch and German researchers have found "clear" evidence that perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the blood can lead to higher levels of harmful blood lipids, potentially increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. PFAS, known as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment, are commonly found in cookware, textiles, and other products. The study suggests that even low levels of PFAS in the general population can have detrimental effects on lipid metabolism, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and active removal of these chemicals from the environment.
A Danish study has found that the medication cholestyramine, typically used for high cholesterol, can significantly reduce "forever chemicals" (PFAS) in the blood, with a 63% decrease observed in a clinical trial. While the results are promising for treating individuals exposed to high levels of PFAS, the drug's side effects make it unsuitable for widespread and prolonged use. Researchers emphasize the need for further exploration of its impact on chronic health conditions and caution against widespread treatment due to potential risks.
A study in the US suggests that consuming certain foods, particularly tea, processed meats, and food prepared outside the home, is associated with increased levels of forever chemicals (PFAS) in the blood. The research highlights the need to reconsider what constitutes "healthy" food due to potential contamination. PFAS are known to be harmful to health, with links to hormone disruption, bone weakening, and increased disease risk. The study aims to identify foods that may require more testing to monitor contamination sources.