Emerging endocrine disrupters: perfluoroalkylated substances.
Allan Astrup Jensen1, Henrik Leffers
1FORCE Technology, Broendby, Denmark. aaj@force.dk
International Journal of Andrology
|March 5, 2008
Summary
Polyfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) are persistent global pollutants found in humans and wildlife. Some PFCs, like PFOS and PFOA, are endocrine disruptors with potential developmental toxicity, despite production bans.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Polyfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) are widely used as surfactants in industrial and consumer products due to their repellent properties.
- Well-known PFCs include perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which are persistent global pollutants.
- These substances bioaccumulate in humans and wildlife, with traces found in blood and organs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity of PFCs.
- To highlight the endocrine-disrupting potential and developmental toxicity of certain PFCs.
- To address the regulatory status of PFCs and related unregulated chemicals.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on PFC properties, environmental fate, and toxicological effects.
- Analysis of bioaccumulation data in human and wildlife populations.
- Examination of regulatory actions and chemical bans related to PFCs.
Main Results:
- PFCs are highly persistent in the environment and detected globally in air, water, soil, and wildlife.
- Human bioaccumulation of PFCs is widespread, with PFOS and PFOA binding to serum proteins.
- PFOS and PFOA exhibit moderate acute toxicity, can induce liver changes, and are suspected endocrine disruptors affecting sex hormone levels.
Conclusions:
- Despite production cessation and bans on PFOS and PFOA, numerous related unregulated PFCs remain a concern.
- The endocrine-disrupting and developmental toxicant properties of PFCs necessitate ongoing monitoring and regulatory attention.
- Continued research is crucial to understand the risks associated with the broader class of perfluoroalkylated substances.
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