Study links PFAS exposure to faster ageing in men over 50; scientists cite new data
TL;DR
Biological ageing appeared more rapid among middle-aged males when PFAS concentrations were elevated, researchers observed. Yet a causal relationship remains unconfirmed despite the pattern noted by science teams.
Appearing Thursday, a newly examined research effort reveals links between PFAS, often labelled 'forever chemicals', and faster biological ageing among males from fifty to sixty-five years old. With data drawn from U.S. adult populations, scientists observed shifts in epigenetic markers tied to elevated levels of specific chemical variants. Published scrutiny shows those carrying more of these substances displayed signs of increased cellular age estimates. This work enters public record through Frontiers in Ageing, following evaluation by independent experts.
Persistent man-made compounds introduced decades ago appear widely across consumer goods built to repel liquids, grease, discolouration, or high temperatures. Their resistance to natural degradation leads to buildup within ecosystems along with biological systems. Research published by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine shows traces present in nearly every person tested nationwide, amounting to roughly 98 out of 100 individuals.
From a pool of 326 individuals involved in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey during 1999 to 2000, open-access records formed the basis of recent study work. In their bloodstream, levels of eleven distinct PFAS chemicals were quantified by researchers instead of relying on self-reports. These values then underwent comparison alongside patterns observed within the DNA methylome, regions influencing how genes function and potentially reflecting changes tied to physiological age. Rather than focusing on one method alone, several validated models for gauging epigenetic time served as tools in assessing the pace of ageing processes.
Appearing most prominent among males aged fifty to sixty-five, the strongest connections drew attention, according to Xiangwei Li from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. While sharing insights through a written message, Li noted that patterns in younger individuals, or those beyond age sixty-five, showed reduced strength, often falling short of statistical relevance. Female data points did emerge; however, these signals remained modest, with irregular presence across results.
Experts not linked to the study consider gender-based effects believable. Hormone-active substances might influence females and males in distinct ways, according to Jane Muncke of the Food Packaging Forum. Her perspective comes from outside the current project. These compounds interfere with hormonal processes. Past findings indicate biological elimination routes in women, such as childbirth, nursing, or menstruation, could speed up clearance of some PFAS types. That pattern does not appear equally in men.
Caution came through clearly when industry voices weighed in on the findings. Though the work raises questions, noted the American Chemistry Council in its message to CNN, it remains preliminary by design. A limited number of participants took part, a factor limiting how far conclusions can stretch. Information used dates back over twenty years, which complicates current interpretations. Causation between PFAS and accelerated ageing, they stressed, has not been proven here. Instead, these outcomes fit within a wider body of ongoing investigation. Seen in context, new data adds pieces without reshaping the full picture.
Findings were described by researchers as indicating links, not proof of cause. According to Li, these results fit within an expanding collection of data pointing to potential physiological impacts from PFAS contact, particularly involving lesser-known substances like perfluorononanoic acid and perfluorooctanesulfonamide.
Context and Regulation
Worries about health risks tied to PFAS have triggered responses across nations. Under a worldwide pact meant to cut down hazardous substances lingering in life forms, certain recognised chemicals, PFOS among them, are marked for phaseout. This framework, formally known as the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, guides such efforts. Though part of the process, America has yet to finalise approval of the accord.
Change now marks federal oversight. Stricter controls once advanced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency targeted specific PFAS compounds, along with their classification as dangerous agents. Yet recent announcements reveal pauses and some reevaluation; official documents confirm such shifts. Later guidance reflects altered timelines and revised approaches noted across current directives.
Practical Implications
Despite their presence in everyday environments, total escape from PFAS proves impractical, experts note. Found nearly everywhere, from drinking supplies to household items, these compounds persist quietly. Still, lowering personal contact remains possible through filtered tap systems approved by testing bodies. Awareness of community water alerts also plays a role. Instead of relying solely on individual choices, systemic progress hinges more on policy enforcement than isolated habits. Materials designed to repel oil or spills often carry higher levels. Focus shifts toward government-led remediation when long-term safety enters discussion. Solutions rooted in regulation tend to outperform minor behavioural adjustments.