PFAS Chemicals Linked to Women’s Cancers

PFAS Chemicals Linked to Women's Cancers

Harmful “Forever” Chemicals: A Silent Threat to Women’s Health

Harmful “forever” chemicals, known as per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), have become increasingly prevalent in our environment. Recently, new research has emerged indicating that these chemicals pose a particular health risk to women. Not only are they associated with certain types of cancers, but exposure to PFAS is also linked to liver damage, fertility issues, high blood pressure, and various other health conditions.

PFAS, a category of over 15,000 compounds, can be found in everyday household items such as shampoo, dental floss, cosmetics, nonstick cookware, food packaging, and clothing. These compounds have the ability to contaminate water and food supplies. Consequently, they have earned the nickname “forever chemicals” due to their long-lasting nature, as they do not break down easily and can persist in the environment for decades. Moreover, PFAS can remain in the human body for months to years.

A new study conducted by Max Aung, an assistant professor of environmental health at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, revealed a connection between higher levels of PFAS exposure in women and an increased likelihood of being diagnosed with certain cancers. The study’s findings specifically indicated that melanoma, ovarian, and uterine cancers were associated with higher exposure levels to certain PFAS chemicals.

The mechanisms by which PFAS chemicals may increase cancer risk are multifaceted. Aung explained that experimental animal and test tube models have shown that PFAS exposure can affect the immune system, hormonal system, liver function, and other bodily processes. For women, PFAS may disrupt hormone function, thereby increasing the likelihood of developing hormone-related cancers.

To conduct the study, researchers analyzed data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2005 to 2018. The sample included more than 48,000 individuals who were asked about previous cancer diagnoses. Their responses were then compared to their PFAS exposures.

• Job frustrations can be a heartbreaker for men.
• Parkinson’s patients face stigma.
• OTC Contraceptive Pill Who Will Pay?

The findings revealed that women with higher exposure to a PFAS compound called PFDE were twice as likely to report a previous melanoma diagnosis compared to those with lower exposure levels. Similarly, women with higher exposure to two other PFAS compounds, PFNA and PFUA, had nearly double the odds of a prior melanoma diagnosis. The researchers also found a link between PFNA exposure and a prior diagnosis of uterine cancer.

Interestingly, the study highlighted some racial differences. White women exposed to PFAS were more likely than Black women to have a previous diagnosis of ovarian and uterine cancer. Additionally, White men with PFAS exposure were more likely than Black men to have a prior prostate cancer diagnosis.

However, no significant link was established between blood markers of PFAS and previous cancer diagnoses in men.

Considering these alarming findings, it is crucial to take steps to minimize exposure to PFAS until better regulations or bans are put in place. Aung emphasized the importance of avoiding products such as nonstick cookware and food packaging containers, which are known to contain PFAS. Furthermore, certain water filters can help reduce PFAS contamination in drinking water.

The study, published in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology, has drawn attention to the need for stricter scrutiny of chemicals that impact the endocrine system and disrupt hormone levels. David Andrews, a senior scientist at the Environmental Working Group, emphasizes the necessity for more comprehensive measures to ensure that such chemicals do not contaminate our bodies.

SLIDESHOW: Skin Cancer Symptoms, Types, Images

In conclusion, the findings of this study shed light on the detrimental impact of PFAS exposure on women’s health. As harmful “forever” chemicals continue to pose a silent threat, it is imperative that individuals, regulatory bodies, and the community take proactive steps to reduce exposure and protect the well-being of women. Through awareness, action, and stringent regulations, we can pave the way for a healthier future.

More information

Learn more about how PFAS can affect health at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

SOURCES: – Max Aung, PhD, MPH, assistant professor, Division of Environmental Health, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles – David Andrews, PhD., senior scientist, Environmental Working Group, Washington, D.C. – Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology, Sept. 18, 2023