Study Suggests Developmental PFAS Exposures Impact Bone Health
Enviromental Policy

Study Suggests Developmental PFAS Exposures Impact Bone Health

Title: Investigating the Link Between PFAS Exposure and Childhood Bone Density

Introduction:
A recent study conducted by NIEHS-funded researchers explores the connection between developmental exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and reduced bone density in children and adolescents. Led by Annelise Blomberg, Sc.D., of Harvard University School of Public Health and Lund University, this study sheds light on the potential impact of PFAS on children’s health.

Understanding PFAS:
PFAS are manmade chemicals present in various products, from firefighting foams to non-stick cookware. Known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS are challenging to break down and prevalent in the air, water, and soil globally. Human exposure to PFAS has been linked to adverse health outcomes, including birth complications, cancer, thyroid issues, and high cholesterol. Additionally, research suggests a correlation between PFAS exposure and lower bone mass density, a critical factor in bone health and osteoporosis risk.

The Faroe Islands Birth Cohort:
To investigate the effects of PFAS on bone density, researchers utilized a birth cohort in the Faroe Islands, a community exposed to PFAS through consumer goods and their traditional diet. Despite no local PFAS manufacturing, the Faroe Islands residents face exposure through various sources. Previous studies in this cohort have already shown associations between PFAS exposure and reduced birth size, emphasizing the vulnerability of children to PFAS due to their developing bodies.

Impact on Children’s Bone Health:
The study measured PFAS concentrations in participants at different ages and found a link between higher PFAS levels at 18 months and 5 years with decreased bone mass density at age 9. Notably, exposures at 18 months may affect both bone health and body composition, indicating potential sensitive windows of exposure. These findings underscore the importance of early PFAS exposure on long-term bone health outcomes.

NIEHS PFAS Research:
NIEHS and the National Toxicology Program support various studies to understand PFAS health effects, detection, and remediation. Over 700 NIEHS-funded publications have contributed to our knowledge of PFAS, revealing associations with cognitive health, diabetes, liver injury, and metabolism. Researchers have also developed innovative methods to detect PFAS in the environment and remediate contaminated areas using natural materials. Grantees under the Superfund Research Program have identified immune disruptions in wildlife, elevated cholesterol levels in humans, and strategies to remove PFAS from water sources.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the study highlights the detrimental impact of PFAS exposure on childhood bone density and the broader implications for children’s health. Further research is needed to explore the clinical outcomes of PFAS exposure, such as fractures, and to understand the full extent of PFAS toxicity in humans. By continuing to investigate PFAS and its effects, researchers aim to develop strategies for remediation and public health interventions. Stay informed and engaged with ongoing PFAS research to protect our health and environment.