Exposure to mixtures of PFAS chemicals in water and soil likely increases health risks, new research suggests, underscoring the need for regulatory change.
Tom Perkins reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- The study found that the combined toxicity of multiple PFAS chemicals can exceed the sum of individual exposures, highlighting health risks in real-world settings where PFAS mixtures are common.
- Researchers assessed PFAS mixtures in drinking water, blood, and sewage sludge, noting that even low concentrations of some PFAS chemicals can significantly increase cytotoxicity and neurotoxicity.
- PFAS, used for their water- and stain-resistant properties, are associated with severe health effects, including cancer and immune suppression, and persist in the environment, earning them the label “forever chemicals.”
Key quote:
“Our point is that PFAS needs to be regulated as mixtures.”
— Diana Aga, University of Buffalo
Why this matters:
Current regulations evaluate PFAS chemicals individually, potentially underestimating risks from exposure to PFAS mixtures. The study’s findings could prompt policy changes to better protect public health from these persistent pollutants.
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