Serum perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) and associations with behavioral attributes
Rebecca Siebenaler1, Rochelle Cameron1, Craig M Butt1
1Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
Chemosphere
|June 21, 2017
Summary
Personal behaviors like using water filters and eating microwavable meals are linked to poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) levels in the body. Understanding these behaviors can help determine PFAS exposure risks.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Human Exposure Studies
Background:
- Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used, leading to chronic human exposure.
- Measurable concentrations of PFAS are found in human tissues across all life stages.
- Behavioral factors influencing PFAS exposure remain understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between personal behaviors and serum PFAS levels in adults.
- To identify specific household, dietary, and behavioral patterns associated with PFAS concentrations.
Main Methods:
- Recruited 37 adults from central North Carolina.
- Collected blood samples for PFAS analysis.
- Administered behavioral questionnaires on household, dietary, and lifestyle factors.
Main Results:
- Six PFAS (PFHxA, PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, PFHxS, PFOS) were detected in over 50% of samples.
- Males generally had higher serum PFAS levels than females.
- Use of filtration devices correlated with lower PFOA but higher PFHxA.
- Less frequent vacuuming and higher consumption of microwavable foods were linked to elevated PFHxS.
Conclusions:
- Personal behaviors significantly influence serum PFAS levels.
- Household and dietary habits are potential determinants of PFAS exposure.
- Further research into behavioral links can inform exposure mitigation strategies.
