A study from Brown University reveals that prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” is linked to higher body mass indices (BMIs) and increased obesity risks in children. Conducted under the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program, the study analyzed data from 1,391 children and their mothers across eight U.S. research sites, highlighting significant findings even with low levels of PFAS exposure.
The research indicates that higher PFAS levels in mothers’ blood during pregnancy correlate with slightly elevated BMIs in their children, a risk that affects both males and females. The study’s lead author, Yun “Jamie” Liu, emphasizes that these findings are crucial due to the persistent nature of PFAS in the environment. Senior author Joseph Braun points out that despite some manufacturers phasing out PFAS use, contemporary exposures still pose risks.
With childhood obesity prevalence reaching 19.7% in U.S. children aged 2-19 (2017-2020), these insights underscore the need for ongoing research and policy adjustments to protect vulnerable populations from PFAS exposure. Future research will explore the long-term health implications of maternal PFAS exposure on children as they grow older.
