“Forever” exposure to PFAS chemicals used in cosmetics and food packaging has been linked to decreased bone mineral density in young people. Scientists from the University of California (USA) came to this conclusion. They are the consequences shared in Environmental Studies.
Some studies have shown that the use of products containing PFAS may lead to reproductive problems and an increased risk of cancer. PFAS (fluorinated surfactants) are not a single substance, but a heterogeneous group of different chemical compounds. Their chemical structure gives products based on such substances greater durability and inability to quickly decompose. It is used in the production of tableware, food containers, clothing, cosmetics packaging and household chemicals.
Bone mineral density increases during adolescence, peaks between ages 20 and 30, and gradually decreases during adulthood. A study of 441 young Latinos found that exposure to PFAS reduced bone density scores. The scientists collected blood samples from all participants to measure PFAS levels and subjected the volunteers to a special type of X-ray known as dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to measure bone density.
A year and a half after the first phase of the study was completed, scientists re-evaluated the bone density of some of the volunteers. When the baseline dose of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), a type of PFAS, was doubled, participants experienced an average decrease of 0.003 grams per square centimeter in bone mineral density. The second group of participants was examined four years later. At the same time that baseline PFOS levels doubled, participants’ bone density decreased by an average of 0.032 grams per square centimeter.
The study’s authors noted that strict government regulations on the use of these substances are necessary to protect the public from the harmful effects of PFAS. They emphasized the need to raise awareness about the dangers of non-stick pans and some personal care products.
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