The CDC has issued new guidelines urging healthcare providers to consider additional blood testing for PFAS, commonly known as 'forever chemicals', to better understand and mitigate health risks.
Youri Benadjaoud reports for ABC News.
In short:
- The CDC's new guidance focuses on increasing blood testing for PFAS, chemicals found in various consumer products and linked to several health issues.
- These tests aim to assess individual exposure levels and inform strategies for reducing future risks.
- Despite the availability of testing, there are no current treatments to lower PFAS levels in the body, highlighting the need for ongoing research and public awareness.
Key quote:
"Over 90% of people in this country have been exposed to PFAS and many, many communities around the country…there have been very high exposures."
— Dr. Aaron Bernstein, director of CDC’s National Center for Environmental Health
Why this matters:
Understanding the widespread impact of PFAS on public health is crucial, as these chemicals are linked to serious health conditions and are pervasive in our environment.
