PFAS in Our Blood: A Canadian Look at These Harmful Chemicals

PFAS chemicals are everywhere. They are in our blood and can cause health problems. These chemicals are used in many products, from non-stick pans to water-repellent clothing. Over time, the types of PFAS chemicals we are exposed to have changed. Long-chain PFASs are being replaced by short-chain PFASs and other new chemistries. A recent study in Canada looked at PFAS levels in the blood of 72 adult males with high cholesterol. The study found that four long-chain PFASs and two short-chain PFASs were present in every participant. This shows that exposure to these chemicals is very common. The most common PFASs found were PFOSA, PFOS, PFOA, and PFHxS. The study also found that some PFASs were linked to higher levels of an enzyme called gamma-glutamyl transferase, which can indicate liver problems. But, these PFASs were not linked to high cholesterol levels. This is interesting because it shows that PFASs might affect our health in different ways. The study also tested a new method to reduce PFAS levels in the blood. Participants were given a dietary fiber supplement for four weeks. The results showed that the total amount of PFASs in the blood decreased in both the control group and the group that received the supplement. But, the group that received the supplement had a bigger decrease in long-chain PFASs. This suggests that dietary fiber might help reduce these harmful chemicals in our bodies. However, the study only lasted four weeks. More research is needed to see if this method works over a longer period. It is also important to control for other sources of PFAS exposure. This means looking at all the ways we might be exposed to these chemicals, not just through our diet. PFAS chemicals are a big concern for our health. They are everywhere, and we need to find ways to reduce our exposure. This study shows that dietary fiber might be one way to do that. But, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to find other ways to reduce our exposure to these harmful chemicals.