Skin absorption of Pfas compounds can impact sperm production, also known as ‘eternity chemicals’

There is significant evidence indicating the harmful effects of Pfas chemicals on the body. Recent mouse experiments have shown that Pfas compounds can affect sperm formation. These chemicals, commonly found in clothes and pans, can be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, as demonstrated by a study published in the scientific journal Environment International.

Researchers from the University of Birmingham conducted tests with artificial skin to investigate the absorption of 17 different Pfas compounds. The results showed that 15 of these compounds were absorbed through the skin, with some absorbing up to 58.9% of the dose placed on the artificial skin. Lead author of the study, Oddný Ragnarsdóttir, highlighted that previous understanding of chemicals entering the body through the skin may need to be revised due to these findings.

Pfas compounds, also known as “eternity chemicals” due to their long-lasting nature, have been linked to various health issues including weakening the effectiveness of vaccines and impacting liver and thyroid gland function. Additionally, recent studies have found that these chemicals can accumulate in the testes of mice and affect sperm formation.

Efforts have been made globally to restrict the use of Pfas compounds, with legislation in places like Colorado aiming to ban daily products containing these chemicals. In Europe, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is working on proposals to limit the use of Pfas compounds, despite lobbying efforts from the chemical industry to prevent strict restrictions.

While the industry has shifted towards using Pfas compounds with shorter chains, believed to be less harmful, the study found that these compounds were actually absorbed most efficiently through the skin. Further research is needed to fully understand the risks associated with these chemicals and to develop regulations that protect human health.