UK launches first national study to measure forever chemicals in humans

The British government has launched its first study to measure the levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the UK population, BBC News reported. The UK Health Security Agency is collecting blood and urine samples to assess potential health risks associated with these synthetic compounds, which are commonly known as forever chemicals. [1][2]

BBC News reported that the health agency is using the testing program to examine other potential human contaminants, including lead and arsenic. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a group of synthetic organofluorine chemical compounds with multiple fluorine atoms attached to an alkyl chain. Because these chemicals possess high chemical and thermal stability, they have long environmental lifetimes. [1][2]

Current evidence suggests that any health impacts from PFAS exposure are likely limited, according to the UK Health Security Agency as reported by BBC News. However, studies in large population groups have shown the strongest links to raised cholesterol levels and lower birth weights. These chemicals have been used prolifically in manufacturing since the 1940s and 1950s. [1]