The toxic PFAS chemicals, also known as “Forever Chemicals,” are manifesting in wildlife at an astonishing level.
In a new study, scientists from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) discovered large concentrations of these persistent contaminants in migratory birds and their food sources, revealing that PFAS contamination is much more extensively infiltrated than previous studies.
The discovery, made possible by new detection methods, highlights the quiet spread of environmental toxins across global ecosystems and the potential risks to human health.
What are PFAS Chemicals?
PFAS (one person and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of synthetic chemicals that resist the degradation of the environment and the human body.
PFAs, often referred to as Forever Chemicals, accumulate over time, leading to potential long-term health risks.
These substances are widely used in non-stick cooking utensils, fire extinguishing agents, water reflective cloths, ski waxes and more.
Research has shown that PFAS exposure is associated with a variety of health issues, including cancer, liver damage, immune system destruction, hormonal imbalances, fertility issues, and child developmental issues.
Bird liver shows a shocking increase in PFA
The most recent study, supported by the Norwegian Research Council, included analysis of samples of 25 birds and 30 shellfish along the East Asia and Australian flyways.
Millions of migratory birds live on this road, many of whom have experienced a sudden decline in population.
What researchers discovered was surprising. Bird livers contained up to 180 times more PFAS chemicals than previously reported.
This increase is due in part to a new detection method called the Total Oxidable Precursor (TOP) assay. This allows scientists to identify precursors of PFA. This is a substance that breaks down into more known harmful variants.
Why new methods are important
Traditional methods focus primarily on Perfluoroalkyl acid (PFAAS), a well-studied subset of PFA.
However, the upper assay reveals hidden precursors, i.e. chemicals that are not easily detected, but are converted to PFAA over time.
These findings suggest that previous studies may significantly underestimate the true scope of PFAS contamination in wildlife.
This breakthrough highlights the way PFA contamination is more widespread than previously believed, especially in ecosystems associated with food chains involving both animals and humans.
Impact on the food chain
Shellfish collected from coastal China of sampled birds were also tested positive at high PFA levels.
As both animals and humans consume these chemicals through food and water, this study points to a concerning pathway for exposure to the food chain.
This study not only highlights PFA levels in migratory birds, but also raises the risks regarding the broader ecological and human health risks caused by these persistent contaminants.
A call for greater surveillance
The findings strengthened the urgent need for global regulatory measures and expanded scientific research into the origin, spread and health impacts of PFAS chemicals.
As detection techniques advance, understandings are also needed about how these substances permeate ecosystems and affect organisms.
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