According to new research from Harvard University, women exposed to high amounts of “forever chemicals” are more likely to develop hormonal disorders.
The study, published in the medical journal JAMA Network Open, analyzed blood samples for seven types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and found that some of these chemicals are linked to hormonal disorders.
What are PFAS?
PFAS are synthetic materials that are resistant to heat and water, and are commonly used in non-stick cookware, food packaging, and single-use or reusable menstrual products.
These materials are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment.
These substances can enter the human body through drinking water, food, and everyday products, and recent studies suggest they can also be absorbed through the skin.
Hormonal problems
In the study, women with signs of endocrine disruption showed higher median concentrations of several PFAS compounds compared to women without these signs.
Endocrine disruption refers to any disturbance in normal hormonal function, which may lead to reduced fertility, genital malformations, menstrual disorders, and precocious puberty.
In 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified two types of PFAS, “perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)” and “perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS),” as carcinogenic.
Although these substances are banned in Europe, European consumer rights organizations warn that many PFAS are still present in everyday products.
