All articles tagged with #pfas
A Shanghai Jiao Tong University–led study using US NHANES data links higher blood levels of PFNA and PFOSA to faster epigenetic aging in men aged 50–64, with no similar effect in women; while it shows association, not causation, the findings suggest some newer PFAS alternatives may pose aging risks and underscore the need to limit exposure and study chemical mixtures.
A Frontiers in Aging study links PFAS “forever chemicals”—present in the blood of about 98% of Americans—to accelerated epigenetic aging, with the strongest effects in men aged 50–65. Using NHANES data from 1999–2000 and 11 PFAS measured in blood, researchers found sex-specific associations and smaller signals in women. Experts caution the findings show associations, not causation, and regulatory bodies describe them as exploratory. Practical reductions in exposure (such as certified water filters and limiting contact with stain- or grease-resistant materials) are considered reasonable, though complete avoidance is unlikely; broader regulatory actions may be needed to curb PFAS exposure.
A European study tested 81 headphones and found BPA in 98% of samples and its substitute BPS in more than three-quarters, with these chemicals migrating into wearers through skin contact—especially with in-ear models—raising concerns about long‑term risks like endocrine disruption, feminization, early puberty, cancer and organ damage. Regulators and manufacturers are urged to demand safer materials and transparency, with TOX-Free LIFE for All pushing bans; Bose and Panasonic were contacted for comment.
A non-targeted screening of umbilical cord blood from 120 newborns (2003–2006) identified 42 PFAS compounds, revealing broader prenatal exposure than previously known. The researchers developed PFAS-omics burden scores to estimate total fetal PFAS burden and found no difference by maternal parity, underscoring the need for improved screening and more research on health effects tied to exposure.
Lancaster-led research estimates about 335,500 tonnes of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) formed from CFC replacements and certain anesthetics and deposited worldwide between 2000–2022, with the amount likely rising for decades; Arctic ice cores and global rainfall data show widespread distribution, underscoring TFA's persistence and potential ecological/health risks and prompting calls for international monitoring and action.
A Geophysical Research Letters study shows that substitutes for ozone-depleting CFCs—such as HCFCs and HFCs used in refrigeration and industry—degrade into trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a persistent pollutant that accumulates worldwide through atmospheric transport, reaching remote areas like the Arctic and entering water bodies. The rising TFA levels raise risks for aquatic life and human health, prompting calls for broader monitoring and international regulation as the use of newer refrigerants continues to grow.
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.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a rapid, eco-friendly technology using layered double hydroxide (LDH) materials to efficiently capture and destroy 'forever chemicals' (PFAS) in water, with potential for reuse and application in municipal and industrial water treatment.
A new study reveals that most seafood consumed in the U.S. is imported and may contain higher levels of 'forever chemicals' (PFAS), raising concerns about increased exposure to these persistent pollutants.
A study found that 95% of beers tested in the U.S. contain PFAS 'forever chemicals,' especially in areas with contaminated water sources, raising concerns about environmental persistence and health risks, and highlighting the need for improved water treatment and regulation.
A recent study links exposure to PFAS chemicals, found in common household items and firefighting gear, to changes in gene activity associated with various serious diseases including cancer, neurological disorders, and autoimmune conditions, highlighting the need for reducing exposure and ongoing research to mitigate risks.
A study reveals that many reusable menstrual products contain toxic PFAS chemicals, which are linked to health risks and environmental contamination, but some products can be manufactured without these chemicals, highlighting the importance of informed consumer choices and better manufacturing practices.
A study found that 95% of tested beers in the U.S. contain toxic forever chemicals (PFAS), especially in regions with contaminated water supplies, raising concerns about environmental and health impacts.
Mount Sinai researchers found that exposure to 'forever chemicals' (PFAS) from household items and water increases the risk of developing diabetes, highlighting the need for reduced exposure and further research into chemical impacts on health.