A new study links exposure to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) during pregnancy to increased risk of childhood asthma. PFAS are human-made chemicals found in food packaging and firefighting foam, nicknamed "forever chemicals" due to their environmental persistence. These substances can disrupt the human immune system and affect overall health. The findings highlight concerns about contaminated water exposure during pregnancy as a potential contributor to pediatric respiratory disease.
PFAS as 'Forever Chemicals' and Their Widespread Presence
- ▪PFAS are found in food packaging
- ▪PFAS are called "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment
- ▪PFAS are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances
- ▪PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals
- ▪PFAS are found in firefighting foam
Health Impacts: Pregnancy Exposure and Childhood Asthma Risk
- ▪PFAS can disrupt the human immune system
- ▪PFAS exposure during pregnancy is linked to increased childhood asthma risk
Perspective of Public health researchers
- ▪PFAS contamination in drinking water represents a significant public health concern for pregnant women
- ▪Reducing PFAS exposure during pregnancy could prevent childhood asthma cases
Perspective of Chemical manufacturers
- ▪Correlation between PFAS exposure during pregnancy and childhood asthma does not necessarily establish causation
- ▪PFAS chemicals provide essential properties in firefighting foam and food packaging that are difficult to replace
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