A new study has revealed a concerning connection between prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and the development of leukemia in children. The study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, found a strong and consistent dose-response relationship between PFAS exposure among expecting mothers and their child’s risk of leukemia.
Childhood leukemia is the most common form of cancer in children, and the researchers discovered that children born in the late 1980s and early 1990s, who were exposed to PFAS before birth, showed higher incidences of the disease. This raises significant concerns about the widespread water contamination caused by these controversial chemicals, which are commonly used in firefighting foam and other products.
The researchers from the National Cancer Institute also observed that the risk of childhood leukemia has increased over the years, alongside the greater use of PFAS. These chemicals, often referred to as forever chemicals, have the ability to accumulate in the environment and the human body, posing numerous health risks.
PFAS encompass a group of more than 9,000 man-made substances that have been widely used for decades to resist grease, oil, and water. However, mounting evidence suggests that exposure to these chemicals may contribute to various cancers, liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, high cholesterol, obesity, hormone suppression, and other injuries.
One significant finding of this study is that PFAS exposure can be passed from the mother to the unborn child through umbilical cord blood, highlighting the potential dangers of these chemicals during pregnancy.
While PFAS have primarily drawn attention for their use in firefighting foam, known as aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), that has resulted in toxic exposures for firefighters and widespread water contamination near military bases, airports, and firefighter training sites, they are also present in numerous consumer products such as food containers, bottles, and wrappers.
In recent years, major chemical and fire safety product manufacturers, including 3M Company, DuPont, Chemguard, Inc., and Tyco Fire Products, have faced numerous PFAS water contamination lawsuits initiated by local water providers. Additionally, injury lawsuits seeking financial compensation for individuals diagnosed with certain types of cancer after regular exposure to these toxic chemicals have also been filed.
The study’s findings add to the growing body of research pointing to the potential dangers of PFAS exposure, particularly during pregnancy, and raise further concerns about the need to regulate and minimize the use of these chemicals. The increased risk of childhood leukemia highlights the urgency in addressing this issue and taking proactive steps to protect public health.
As more research emerges on the adverse health effects of PFAS, it becomes evident that stricter regulations and comprehensive efforts to reduce exposure are essential. By prioritizing the health and safety of individuals and communities, we can strive to minimize the risks associated with these harmful substances.
It is crucial for policymakers, industry leaders, and the public to remain informed about the latest scientific evidence regarding PFAS and advocate for measures aimed at preventing further contamination and safeguarding the health and well-being of future generations.
