Doctors called a substance in human blood that disrupts metabolism and thyroid function
Researchers from the University of Southern California found that the presence of PFAS (man-made chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds) in human blood alters the body’s metabolism and disrupts the thyroid gland, leading to various diseases. The results of the study were published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.
PFAS is a type of plastic used to make containers, dish covers, candy wrappers, paint brushes, and more. They are very stable, which makes them difficult to somehow recycle.
As part of their study, the authors recruited a sample of approximately 450 adolescent participants from whom blood samples were taken. All participants had several different types of PFAS in their blood. Some varieties of this plastic increase the risk of several types of diseases, such as cancer or cardiovascular disease, scientists say.
In addition, experts emphasized that the presence of PFAS also disrupts the metabolism of lipids and amino acids in the body and changes the function of thyroid hormones. It can disrupt a person’s puberty.
In future work, the team will continue to explore the effects of PFAS on the human body.
