New research shows that exposure to PFAS may weaken the immune system in adults. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are widely used in products such as nonstick pans, stain-resistant fabrics and firefighting foams. These substances are often called "forever chemicals" because they do not easily break down; one compound, PFHxS, can persist for nearly a decade.
The study looked at people exposed to PFAS through contaminated drinking water. Researchers found that individuals with higher PFAS levels in their blood produced fewer protective antibodies when their immune systems met a new virus. Courtney Carignan, the study's senior author at Michigan State University, says antibodies act like tiny soldiers and that fewer soldiers can make the immune system less effective.
The apparent effect was strongest among older adults, men and people who are overweight. Some families already see health consequences: one mother reported that some childhood vaccines were not fully effective because of a compromised immune system. The findings support efforts to reduce PFAS in drinking water and to continue monitoring and regulation.
Difficult words
- exposure — being in contact with something harmful
- substance — a type of material or chemical mattersubstances
- antibody — a protein the body makes to fight germsantibodies
- persist — to continue to exist for a long time
- contaminate — to make water or food impure or unsafecontaminated
- compromise — to damage a system so it works less wellcompromised
- monitor — to watch or check something over timemonitoring
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How could reducing PFAS in drinking water help people in your community?
- What steps could a family take at home to lower PFAS exposure?
- If some childhood vaccines become less effective, what should parents and health services do next?
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