Serum concentrations of perfluorinated compounds among children living in Sicily (Italy)

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are man-made chemicals with a fluorinated carbon chain and a hydrophilic head.
• PFAS exposure is linked to adverse health effects across multiple organ systems.
• Children's developing bodies may be particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of PFAS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the serum concentrations of 16 PFAS in children living in Sicily.
• To investigate potential correlations between PFAS levels and demographic factors.
• To underscore the need for monitoring and addressing PFAS health impacts in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

• Medical examinations and routine blood/urine tests were conducted on 61 children aged 6-11 years.
• Serum concentrations of 16 specific PFAS were quantified.
• Statistical analyses explored associations between PFAS levels and maternal parity, breastfeeding duration, and gender.

Main Results:

• All children exhibited detectable levels of PFAS, with a mean total concentration (∑PFCs) of 5.888 ng/mL.
• Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorohexanesulfonate (PFHxs), and perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) were among the most prevalent.
• Correlations were observed between long-chain and short-chain PFAS, maternal parity, breastfeeding duration, and gender.

Conclusions:

• Widespread PFAS exposure is evident in Sicilian children, necessitating attention to potential health risks during critical developmental stages.
• Maternal parity, breastfeeding, and gender may influence PFAS accumulation in children.
• Further research is crucial to monitor and mitigate the adverse health outcomes associated with PFAS exposure in children, particularly in industrial areas.