Chemicals used in the production of waterproof fabrics and non-stick cookware may raise cholesterol levels in children and teens, according to new US research.
The man-made fluorocarbon compounds known as perfluoroalkyl acids – including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) – are used during the manufacture of fluoropolymers, which give non-stick heat resistance to cookware and breathable, waterproof properties to fabrics and upholstery.
They make their way into people through drinking water, dust, food packaging, breast milk, cord blood, microwave popcorn, air and occupational exposure.
PFOA and PFOS may also result from the breakdown of compounds used as coating for commercial food packaging, factory treatments for fabrics and carpets and manufacturer pre-treatment for stain-resistant clothing.
A study of more than 12,000 children in the mid-Ohio River Valley, who had PFOA in their drinking water, found higher levels were associated with increased total and LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol levels.
The results tally with animal studies that have identified the liver as the primary organ affected by perfluoroalkyl acid exposure, with potential effects in human including alterations in cholesterol levels.
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By GlobalDataThe research, which is detailed in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine journal, says the findings show a link between exposure to these chemicals and higher cholesterol readings, and suggests they warrant further study.
