Single and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) are a class of human chemicals that have been widely used since the 1940s for their resistance to heat, water, oil and dirt.
These substances are found in countless everyday items, including non-stick cooking utensils, food packaging, waterproof clothing, and dirt-resistant fabrics.
It has earned the nickname “Forever Chemicals” because its durability and durability in the environment does not easily break down and can accumulate over time in the soil, water, wildlife, and the human body.
PFAS exposure is becoming increasingly a public health concern due to its potential link to a variety of chronic diseases, including liver damage, destruction of the immune system, and certain cancers.
The ever-growing evidence now links PFA with metabolic disorders and, more recently, type 2 diabetes.
New Mountain Sinai research reveals diabetic connections
A newly published study led by researchers at Mount Sinai provides compelling evidence that PFAS exposure can significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
This observational study was conducted within Biome, a large, diverse health record-related biobank, which includes more than 70,000 participants from Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
This study focused on 180 individuals who were recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, comparing them with a matched group of 180 individuals without diabetes.
The researchers carefully combined participants by age, gender and ancestor to ensure comparable baselines. PFA concentrations in blood samples from all participants were analyzed.
The results revealed a prominent pattern. Participants with higher levels of PFA in the bloodstream had a 31% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes with each increase in PFA exposure. These findings remained consistent even after adjusting for known risk factors such as age and ethnicity.
How PFA can destroy metabolism
The Sinai Mountain team also investigated the potential biological mechanisms behind the observed link between PFA and diabetes.
Their analysis suggested that PFA may interfere with metabolic pathways associated with amino acid biosynthesis and drug metabolism. These are two important systems for maintaining healthy blood glucose regulation.
These metabolic disorders explain how PFA disrupts insulin function and glucose homeostasis, paving the way for type 2 diabetes to develop, particularly among genetically or environmentally vulnerable populations.
Calling for broader environmental health research
This study adds increased recognition of PFA as a risk factor for chronic diseases such as obesity, liver disease and currently type 2 diabetes.
The researchers highlighted the need for further research using the “exposome” approach. We integrated environmental exposure data with genetic and clinical information to better understand how complex interactions contribute to disease.
They also highlighted the importance of conducting longitudinal studies across life spans, from preconceptions to geriatric age, identifying the most vulnerable windows of exposure and improving strategies for disease prevention.
With increasing evidence linking PFA exposure to serious health risks, this study strengthens the urgency to reduce public exposure to these chemicals.
Regulators, manufacturers, and public health experts need to work together to minimize environmental pollution and explore safer alternatives to consumer products.
In the meantime, individuals can reduce their risk by avoiding products containing PFA, such as non-stick cooking utensils and dye-resistant sprays, and advocating for stronger environmental protection.
Source link
