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During our lives we are exposed to many toxic substances in our surroundings.
One group of these substances known as PFAS was examined in a recently published study.
The PFAS are synthetic chemical substances that have been widely used since 1950, and are known for their durability and widespread presence in the environment.
Despite concerns about their health effects, particularly at high exposure levels, the effect of low-level exposure on the general population remains unclear.
In a recent study published in the medical journal Expo Health, researchers delved into the relationship between PFAS exposure and cardiometabolic risk factors by analyzing data from two large cohort studies conducted in the Netherlands and Germany.
Over 2,500 participants aged 30 to 89 were included in these studies.
The study revealed crucial insights into the health consequences of PFAS exposure.
What is their effect on health?
●Ubiquitous exposure:
Exposure to PFAS was common among study participants, so that they were found among almost all subjects, indicating the widespread presence of these chemicals in the environment.
●Metabolic disorders and adverse changes in blood lipids:
relationships have been observed between exposure to PFAS and negative metabolic disorders characterized by increased levels of blood lipids and various lipoproteins associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
●The study found harmful effects at low levels:
Even low levels of PFAS were found to be associated with harmful changes in lipid metabolism, indicating potential health risks at concentrations previously considered safe.
●Age-dependent sensitivity:
The effects of PFAS exposure on lipid profiles were more pronounced in younger individuals, indicating an age-dependent sensitivity to these chemicals.
The study highlights the urgent need for stricter regulation of PFAS substances and proactive steps to reduce their environmental presence due to their persistent nature and harmful health effects.
It highlights the ongoing public health concern arising from exposure to PFAS and emphasizes ongoing research and regulatory efforts to reduce their impact on human health and the environment.
Also found in Teflon/ShutterStock pans
Where can they be found?
Industrial areas: They are used in industrial processes such as the metal industry and semiconductor manufacturing.
The waste materials of these industries can lead to contamination of nearby land and water.
Firefighting foams: These materials are widely used in firefighting foams, and can contaminate land and water.
Consumer products: They are used in a wide variety of products such as non-stick cookware (Teflon), waterproof clothing, food packaging (such as microwave popcorn bags and fast food packaging), and stain-resistant carpets and furniture.
Landfills: Consumer products containing PFAS are often disposed of in landfills.
Over time, they can leach from these landfills and contaminate nearby soil and groundwater.
Drinking water: Contamination of drinking water sources, such as groundwater and surface water, is a significant concern.
PFAS can migrate from contaminated soil and groundwater into drinking water supplies, especially near industrial sites or areas with heavy use of firefighting foams (such as airports or military bases).
Food: PFAS can accumulate in food through various pathways, including contaminated water used in agriculture, food packaging materials, and contamination during food processing.
Seafood, especially fish and shellfish, can be a significant source of PFAS exposure in some areas.
Try to avoid popcorn in a bag/ShutterStock
How can you reduce your exposure to PFAS?
Avoid using non-stick pots and pans (Teflon).
Limit the use of fast food (many of their wrappers and packaging are treated with PFAS to make them grease-resistant).
Avoid microwave popcorn (which comes in PFAS-coated bags).
Choose personal care and hygiene products that do not contain PFAS.
Dr. Dalit Dariman Medina is an expert in family medicine and integrative and functional medicine
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