Fact Check: "PFAS levels in the human blood are rising"
What We Know
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that have been widely used in various industries and consumer products. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), nearly all people in the U.S. have been exposed to PFAS, and these substances can be detected in human blood. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) has tracked PFAS levels in the U.S. population since 1999. Notably, data from NHANES indicate that blood levels of certain PFAS, specifically PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), have significantly declined since 2002, with PFOS levels dropping by over 85% and PFOA levels by over 70% from 1999-2000 to 2018-2019 (ATSDR).
Recent studies have also shown trends in PFAS levels among different demographic groups. A study published in 2023 found that while some PFAS levels have decreased overall, there are indications that certain PFAS, such as PFDA (perfluorodecanoic acid) and PFHxS (perfluorohexanesulfonic acid), may show upward trends in specific racial or ethnic groups after 2016 (Trends in Serum PFAS). However, the overall trend for the general population indicates a decline in the most prevalent PFAS compounds.
Analysis
The claim that "PFAS levels in the human blood are rising" is misleading when considering the broader context of available data. The ATSDR's findings clearly indicate a decline in the blood levels of the most common PFAS, specifically PFOS and PFOA, due to reduced production and usage (ATSDR). This decline is corroborated by multiple studies, including a comprehensive analysis of NHANES data, which shows a continuous decrease in serum PFAS levels from 1999 to 2018 across the general population (Trends in Serum PFAS).
While it is true that some specific PFAS may be rising in certain demographic groups, this does not reflect a general trend applicable to the entire population. The study's findings highlight the complexity of PFAS exposure, suggesting that while some individuals may experience increased levels due to localized sources of contamination or demographic factors, the overall trend for the population at large is a decrease in the most concerning PFAS compounds (Trends in Serum PFAS).
It is essential to consider the reliability of the sources. The ATSDR is a reputable federal agency that provides public health information based on extensive research, while the studies referenced are peer-reviewed and published in reputable journals, adding to their credibility.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that "PFAS levels in the human blood are rising" is not supported by the overall data. While certain PFAS may show increases in specific populations, the predominant trend for the general U.S. population indicates a significant decline in the levels of the most common PFAS compounds, particularly PFOS and PFOA. This decline is attributed to reduced production and use of these substances, as documented by multiple reliable sources.
