Recent research has unveiled a concerning new pathway for the absorption of harmful chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These “forever chemicals,” so named due to their persistent nature, can now infiltrate our bodies through the skin. This discovery has significant implications for public health, as PFAS are widely used in numerous consumer products.
The Discovery
A groundbreaking study published in the journal Environment International has highlighted that PFAS can penetrate human skin and enter the bloodstream. The Washington Post reports that this finding adds a new dimension to the already troubling presence of these chemicals in our environment. Previously, ingestion through contaminated food, water, and air was considered the primary route of exposure.
The Nature of PFAS
PFAS are synthetic compounds found in a wide array of products due to their unique properties. They are commonly used in cosmetics, water-repellent clothing, non-stick cookware, and even hand sanitizers. Their ability to repel grease, water, oil, and heat makes them highly versatile but also difficult to eliminate from the environment and the human body.
Health Implications
The health risks associated with PFAS are well-documented. These chemicals have been linked to several cancers, infertility, high cholesterol, low birth weights, and adverse effects on the liver, thyroid, and immune system. The new research suggests that routine exposure to PFAS through skin contact may be an underappreciated risk factor.
Expert Insights
Graham Peaslee, a physics professor at the University of Notre Dame, underscores the gravity of the situation: “We are coating ourselves in this stuff every day, so the long-term prognosis is that a lot of this stuff can go through the skin and at surprising rates.” The study reveals that shorter-chain PFAS are particularly adept at penetrating the skin and entering the bloodstream, although longer-chain compounds also pose a risk over time.
Mitigating Exposure
Consumers can take proactive steps to reduce their exposure to PFAS. Here are some practical measures:
- Choose PFAS-Free Products: Opt for personal care and beauty products labeled as PFAS-free. Many brands now offer safer alternatives for cosmetics, sunscreens, and clothing.
- Advocate for Policy Changes: Support legislation aimed at restricting PFAS in consumer goods. Currently, only eight states have enacted laws limiting PFAS in personal care products. Advocacy at the local and national levels can drive broader regulatory action.
- Make Informed Choices: Each purchase decision signals to manufacturers the importance of producing safer, PFAS-free products. This collective consumer pressure can lead to a market shift towards healthier options.
The revelation that PFAS can be absorbed through the skin adds urgency to the call for greater awareness and regulation of these persistent chemicals. By choosing PFAS-free products and advocating for stricter controls, consumers can play a crucial role in reducing the health risks associated with these ubiquitous substances.
Reverse Osmosis and Water Conditioners
In addition to choosing safer products, consider investing in reverse osmosis filtration systems and whole-home water conditioners. These technologies can significantly reduce PFAS levels in your water supply, providing an additional layer of protection against exposure. Reverse osmosis systems work by forcing water through a semipermeable membrane, effectively removing contaminants, including PFAS. Whole-home water conditioners treat the water supply at the point of entry, ensuring that all water sources in your home are free from harmful chemicals.
Source: Yahoo News