Uncovering the Harmful Effects of PFAS Exposure on the Human Body

Uncovering the Harmful Effects of PFAS Exposure on the Human Body

Introduction 

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals containing at least one fully fluorinated methyl or methylene carbon.¹ Manufacturers incorporate these compounds into a diverse range of products, including clothing, food packaging, carpets, cookware, and medical devices.² However, scientists have determined that PFAS are harmful to both the environment and human health. The chemicals enter the body through ingestion of contaminated food, drinking water, and breast milk; inhalation of volatile emissions or dust; and dermal absorption from contact with PFAS-containing products.^3,4 Additionally, PFAS cross the blood-brain and placental barriers.^5,6 Over the last couple of decades, researchers have found evidence that PFAS affect numerous organ systems.

Urinary System

Scientists linked PFAS exposure to increased rates of kidney dysfunction and chronic kidney disease in adults and children.⁶ They also associated elevated long-chain PFAS serum levels with greater risks of kidney stones and kidney cancer.^6,7 Furthermore, scientists observed a greater incidence of urinary cancers in adult men consuming PFAS-contaminated drinking water.⁵

Reproductive System and Development

Researchers connected PFAS exposure to reduced spermatogenesis and sperm motility, increased testicular damage and testicular cancer, and lower fertility.^6,8 They also associated prenatal PFAS exposure with lower birth weights, metabolic disruptions in fetal livers, and an elevated risk of childhood cancer.^9,10

Nervous System

Scientists associated PFAS exposure with increased neurotoxicity, which may promote neurodegeneration.¹¹ They also found higher brain cancer rates in adult men exposed to PFAS-contaminated drinking water.⁵

Musculoskeletal System

Researchers linked PFAS exposure to a decline in bone mineral density (BMD) during adolescence and early adulthood.¹² They also correlated higher serum PFAS with lower lumbar spine BMD in premenopausal women.¹³

Immune System

Scientists observed that PFAS exposure alters immune responses, including potentially causing immunosuppression, which may affect vaccine efficacy.^6,14 

Digestive and Excretory System

Researchers connected PFAS exposure with hepatocellular adenoma and carcinoma development.⁶ They also determined that higher serum PFAS concentrations correlate with increased nonalcoholic fatty liver disease severity.¹⁵

Endocrine System

Scientists associated PFAS exposure with thyroid dysfunction and thyroid disease in adults and children.⁶ They also connected it to higher thyroid cancer rates, especially in adult women.^5,16 Additionally, researchers correlated elevated plasma PFAS concentrations to greater weight regain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.^17,18

Circulatory and Respiratory Systems

Researchers correlated higher PFAS levels with increased serum concentrations of total lipids, cholesterol, and phospholipids.¹⁹ They also associated PFAS exposure with greater cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women.²⁰ In adult men, scientists observed higher leukemia rates and increased chronic cough incidence following PFAS exposure.^5,21

References

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