PFAS Exposure During Pregnancy Linked to Increased Infant Health Risks
Exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) through drinking water may significantly harm infant health, increasing the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and even infant mortality, according to recent research. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Arizona examined data from over 11,000 births in New Hampshire between 2010 and 2019, revealing a concerning link between PFAS exposure and adverse birth outcomes.
Study Findings: A Clear Increase in Risk
The research focused on mothers whose drinking water came from wells located either upstream or downstream of known PFAS-contaminated sites. The findings indicated that infants born to mothers served by wells downstream of these sites faced substantially higher risks. Specifically, babies born to mothers with downstream well water had a 20% higher chance of being born prematurely, a 43% increased likelihood of being born with low birth weight, and a staggering 191% higher chance of dying during their first year. The study also found a 168% increased likelihood of extremely preterm births—defined as less than 28 weeks—and a 180% higher chance of extremely low-weight births (under 1 kg) compared to those whose water source was upstream.
PFAS: A Persistent Threat
PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are man-made compounds that persist in the environment and accumulate in the human body. They have garnered increasing attention from public health officials and regulators due to their potential for harm, even at low concentrations. The study highlights pregnancy as a particularly vulnerable period, as PFAS can cross the placenta and reach the developing fetus. A science review found that PFAS are routinely detected in umbilical cord blood.
Unique Study Methodology Strengthens Findings
The New Hampshire study is notable for its robust methodology, designed to isolate the impact of PFAS exposure from drinking water. All participants lived within approximately three miles of a PFAS-contaminated site, and the primary difference between the study and control groups was the location of their water source relative to the contamination. This design strengthens the argument that PFAS exposure, rather than other socioeconomic factors, played a significant role in the observed adverse birth outcomes. Interestingly, the study found that the pregnant individuals with the highest exposures and worst health outcomes were from more socioeconomically advantaged groups, further supporting the link between PFAS and negative birth outcomes.
Economic Impact of PFAS-Related Health Harms
The health consequences of PFAS exposure extend beyond individual suffering, carrying a substantial economic burden. Researchers estimate that PFAS-related health harms cost the U.S. Approximately $8 billion annually in healthcare expenditures and reduced earnings. This figure is more than double the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) previous estimate of around $3.8 billion for treating PFAS in drinking water under new regulations. These regulations set the first limits on PFOA, PFOS, and other PFAS.
EPA Regulations and Ongoing Concerns
Despite the potential benefits of addressing PFAS contamination, there have been recent concerns about the EPA potentially scaling back its historic drinking water regulations and delaying compliance deadlines to . Experts argue that the public health gains from cleaning up PFAS-contaminated drinking water could justify the costs of treatment, even when considering reproductive health benefits alone.
Low-Level Exposure Still a Concern
Further research, including a study, reinforces the need for stringent regulations. This study demonstrated that even low levels of PFAS detected in public drinking water supplies are associated with increased levels of the chemicals in human blood. Specifically, participants with detectable PFHxS in their source water had 30% higher blood levels of the chemical, while those with detectable PFHxS, PFOA, PFOS, or total PFAS in their treated tap water had 80%, 30%, 31%, and 42% higher blood levels, respectively. Even though blood levels in the study participants were lower than national averages, 86% had levels linked to potential health harms, according to clinical follow-up guidance from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.
Addressing PFAS Exposure: A Multi-Faceted Approach
The Southern California study, along with the New Hampshire research, underscores the widespread nature of PFAS contamination. While the studies focused on drinking water, it’s important to note that PFAS exposure can occur through other routes, including diet and household dust. The EPA finalized groundbreaking regulations for PFAS in drinking water in , but a national standard is needed to protect all communities.
Individuals can take steps to reduce their exposure to PFAS, including using a reverse osmosis or carbon filter for drinking water, and being mindful of potential sources in everyday products. Resources like the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Tap Water Database and Skin Deep® database can help individuals assess their risk and make informed choices.
Reducing Exposure in Daily Life
- Find out what’s in your tap water using EWG’s Tap Water database or EWG’s interactive map of PFAS in drinking water.
- Use a reverse osmosis or carbon filter to reduce PFAS in your water.
- Tell your elected officials that drinking water is important to your family’s health and that PFAS regulations are important.
Consider these additional steps to reduce PFAS exposure:
- Use cast iron, stainless steel, and glass cookware.
- Avoid purchasing clothing or textiles marketed as “stain resistant” or “wrinkle resistant.”
- Reduce household dust with frequent vacuuming and dusting.
- Use EWG’s Skin Deep® database to avoid cosmetics with PFAS.
