Study Explores Sources of PFAS Exposure in Women

Introduction to PFAS Chemicals

Recent research has investigated potential sources of exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) among women. Common household items, including non-stick cookware, carpets, food packaging, and dental floss, often contain these chemicals due to their water- and fat-resistant properties. Concerns arise as traces of PFAS have been detected in humans and are associated with various cancers and diseases.

Research Methodology

The findings were published in *The Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology*. Researchers utilized data from the Child Health and Development Studies in the United States, which focused exclusively on women. This dataset included participant blood samples analyzed for PFAS levels, along with self-reported race and behavior information to identify potential exposure pathways. The study examined exposure to 11 different PFAS chemicals and assessed fluorine levels in dental floss, which can indicate PFAS presence.

Racial Disparities in PFAS Exposure

The analysis revealed that PFOS was the most prevalent chemical across all participants. Notably, PFHxS and PFOA levels were higher in non-Hispanic white women compared to African American women. Furthermore, a comparison with a national database indicated that African American women exhibited 80% higher levels of Me-PFOSA-ACOH.

Additionally, high levels of PFHxS were found in women using Oral-B Glide dental floss, which was confirmed to contain fluorine. The consumption of food packaged in cardboard was also linked to PFAS exposure; however, it was noted that African American women had elevated levels of PFOA, PFNA, PFDeA, and PFOS in comparison to their non-Hispanic white counterparts.

Implications and Future Research

The study highlights the commonality of PFAS exposure among participants, with variations in the types of PFAS detected based on race. Given that the research focused on only two racial groups and exclusively on women, it is crucial to explore PFAS exposure levels in other racial and ethnic communities, as well as in men.

Conclusion: Seeking Alternatives to PFAS

Overall, the study reinforces previous findings that PFAS exposure is significantly influenced by product usage. Understanding possible sources of PFAS can aid researchers in identifying safer alternatives for everyday products. This knowledge empowers the public to make informed choices about which items to avoid, ultimately reducing their exposure to these harmful chemicals.

References

Boronow, K.E., Brody, J.G., Schaider, L.A., Peaslee, G.F., Havas, K., & Cohn, B.A. (2019). Serum concentrations of PFASs and exposure-related behaviors in African American and non-Hispanic white women. *The Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology*. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41370-018-0109-y