Study: PFAs Accelerate Aging in Men

Researchers in China have discovered that middle-aged men are vulnerable to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly called “forever chemicals” in terms of aging.

Using blood samples, the research team led by Xiangwei Li, a professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, they found that the men in their 50s and up had higher sensitivity to PFAs, which can accellerate epigenetic aging, which is a measurement of one’s biological age, instead of chronilogical age. The findings were reported in the Frontiers in Aging journal.

PFAs disrupt the body’s network of body functions that affect metabolism, growth, production, and even mood, according to experts reporting to CNN.

“These findings suggest that some newer PFAS alternatives are not necessarily low-risk replacements and warrant serious attention regarding their environmental impact,” Dr. Li said in a news release.

Where Are PFAs Found?

These chemicals were first invented in the 1950s and 1960s to be used in consumer products like water-proofing in outdoor gear and clothing, and grease-repelling as in non-stick pans. They’re found in soaps, shampoos, deodorants, shaving cream, and other body care products, insecticides, electronics, paints, These chemicals withstand heat very well.

PFAS Exposure Can Lower Testerone Levels

Research shows that PFAS exposure has many health risks, including lowering testerone, degrading sperm quality, and increasing risk for testicular and kidney cancers.

How to Avoid Forever Chemicals

As of last year, the state of Washington has banned the sale of products that have PFAs, and there are alternatives. Look at labels. Choose products that are labeled “PFAS-free.” Avoid microwaved meals and do not microwave fast-food containers.

Don't smoke. Smoking already accelerates aging, and PFAS can speed this process along.

Why men? "We suspect that men may be at higher risk because the aging markers we analyzed are heavily influenced by lifestyle factors such as smoking, which can compound the damaging effects of these pollutants," Dr. Li said.

It’s been found in drinking water. Follow the advice of your local water authority regarding using water for drinking, cooking, bathing, washing dishes, providing to pets, or filtering during an advisory, according to the National Science Foundation.

More research is needed to prove causation, but this is one piece of the puzzle about how environmental factors affect overall health and aging.