Study links PFAS exposure to accelerated aging in men
The “forever chemicals” known as PFAS are found to accelerate biological aging in men aged between 50 and 64, according to a recent study, reports BritPanorama.
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, dubbed forever chemicals due to their persistence in the environment, are present in the blood of an estimated 98% of Americans, as noted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. The study highlights that epigenetic aging—a measurement of biological age—was most pronounced in men, suggesting a significant correlation with PFAS exposure.
“The associations between PFAS exposure and accelerated epigenetic aging were strongest in men aged 50 – 65,” stated Xiangwei Li, senior author and professor of epidemiology at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, via email. In contrast, younger men and those over 65 showed weaker associations, and any relevant findings in women were generally less consistent.
The research indicates a “sex-specific effect” concerning chemicals that disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates essential bodily functions such as metabolism and reproduction, according to Jane Muncke, managing director at the Food Packaging Forum. The Forum, based in Zurich, Switzerland, works on research surrounding plastics and industrial chemicals.
For men, PFAS exposure has been linked to lowered testosterone levels, reduced sperm quality, and increased risks of certain cancers. Earlier research indicates that women might eliminate specific PFAS compounds more effectively than men due to biological factors like pregnancy and menstruation, though differences tend to diminish post-menopause.
While the current study offers intriguing insights, Muncke cautioned against viewing these results as definitive causations, noting they are part of a broader puzzle that helps establish biological plausibility. Likewise, the American Chemistry Council highlighted that the study is exploratory, drawing data from a small, older demographic, and asserted it does not establish PFAS exposure as a direct cause of aging.
The findings emerge amid growing scrutiny of PFAS chemicals, which have been implicated in various health issues, including cancer and hormonal disruptions, since their use began in the 1950s. Regulatory efforts to manage dangerous levels of these substances have faced challenges, with the US Environmental Protection Agency attempting to define stricter guidelines under the Biden administration, though many plans were rolled back or delayed under former President Trump.
Li emphasized the need for caution regarding PFAS exposure, acknowledging its widespread nature while recommending practical steps for reduction—like using certified water filters and minimizing contact with stain-resistant materials—while advocating for regulatory actions to mitigate environmental impacts.
The chemical industry’s development of new PFAS variants remains a critical area for ongoing research, as those compounds may exhibit similar risks as their predecessors.
