New research indicates that 'forever chemicals,' known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), may be contributing to weakened bones in children. These persistent chemicals, used for decades in various industries, are nearly impossible to avoid.
A study involving 218 children examined levels of several PFAS, including PFOA and PFHxS, in their blood and cross-referenced these with bone density measurements. The findings revealed an association between PFOA exposure and lower forearm bone density at age 12. Associations for other PFAS varied with exposure time, highlighting age as a critical factor.
Epidemiologist Jessie Buckley of the University of North Carolina stated, "These findings add to growing evidence that PFAS exposure during early life may carry long-term health consequences, underscoring the importance of efforts to reduce contamination." The study noted a stronger association between higher PFAS levels and lower bone density in females. While this is an observational study and doesn't prove direct causation, the connections suggest significant links requiring further investigation. The researchers estimate that higher PFAS levels could mean a roughly 30 percent higher chance of bone fracture.
Previous studies have linked lower bone mass in youth to increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis in adulthood. Researchers suggest PFAS might disrupt vitamin D, a key nutrient for bone development, potentially explaining some of the observed effects. PFOA, a common PFAS, is now banned globally but remains prevalent in the environment.
Further research is needed to determine if these associations persist into adulthood.