Major study into 'forever chemicals' in people's bodies launched in UK
Summary
The UK Health Security Agency is launching the first study to measure levels of PFAS and other contaminants in the UK population. It will analyze blood and urine samples from the Health Survey for England, with initial results expected next year. Officials say the study will help assess exposure and health risks, which remain uncertain.Key Facts
- The study will measure PFAS, lead, arsenic, bisphenols, phthalates and flame retardants.
- Researchers will use blood and urine samples collected through the existing Health Survey for England.
- The UK Health Security Agency expects to publish the first results next year.
- PFAS have been used since the 1940s and 1950s in products including cookware, clothing and firefighting foam because they resist water, oil and heat.
- PFOA and PFOS are banned in the UK; the article says prolonged exposure to them can increase cancer risk.
- The strongest health links found in large population studies include raised cholesterol and lower birth weights.
- The government does not recommend routine individual PFAS blood tests because there is no established clinical action for people with elevated levels.
- More than 15,000 types of PFAS exist, and researchers say evidence about long-term effects at different exposure levels remains incomplete.
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