A recent study conducted by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has shed light on the potential impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as ‘forever chemicals,’ on the heart health of postmenopausal women. The research indicates a correlation between various types of PFAS and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases in this demographic.
Lead researcher Alicia Arredondo Eve, a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition within the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at Illinois, highlighted the significance of the findings. She emphasized that while previous studies hinted at a connection between PFAS exposure and cardiovascular issues during menopause, the specific mechanisms remained unclear until now.
PFAS, widely present in everyday items such as nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging, pose a challenge due to their persistent nature. Some variants of these chemicals can endure in the environment for extended periods, earning them the ‘forever chemicals’ label. The study focused on how PFAS chemicals interact with pro-inflammatory pathways in older women, potentially explaining the heightened risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Notably, the ubiquity of PFAS in the environment raises concerns about their impact on human health. Research indicates that nearly all Americans carry traces of PFAS in their blood and tissues, with younger individuals being particularly vulnerable. While premenopausal women have a slight advantage in expelling PFAS from their bodies through childbirth, breastfeeding, and menstrual cycles, the overall prevalence of these chemicals remains a pressing issue.
The study’s findings underscore the importance of further research into the health effects of PFAS exposure, particularly in vulnerable populations like postmenopausal women. By understanding the biological mechanisms underlying the link between PFAS and cardiovascular diseases, researchers aim to develop targeted interventions to mitigate the risks associated with these persistent chemicals.
