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Maternal serum concentrations of perfluoroalkyl substances and birth size in British boys

Kristin J Marks1, Anya J Cutler1, Zuha Jeddy2

  • 1Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, United States; National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy, Atlanta, GA, 30341, United States.

International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health
|April 13, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Prenatal exposure to perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) may be linked to smaller birth size in baby boys. This study found inverse associations between maternal PFOS levels and infant weight, length, and head circumference.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Reproductive Toxicology
  • Pediatric Health

Background:

  • Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used industrial chemicals with documented global presence.
  • Previous research indicates potential inverse associations between prenatal PFAS exposure and birth size.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between prenatal exposure to specific PFAS (PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, PFNA) and birth size in male infants.
  • To analyze maternal serum concentrations of these PFAS during pregnancy and their correlation with infant anthropometrics.

Main Methods:

  • The study included 457 mother-son dyads from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC).
  • Maternal serum PFAS levels (PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, PFNA) were measured at median 30 weeks gestation.
  • Birth weight, crown-to-heel length, and head circumference were recorded at delivery.
  • Multivariable linear regression models were employed to assess associations.

Main Results:

  • PFAS were detected in all maternal serum samples.
  • Inverse associations were observed between maternal PFOS concentrations and infant birth weight (β = -8.50 g), length (β = -0.04 cm), and head circumference (β = -0.02 cm).
  • No significant associations were reported for PFOA, PFHxS, or PFNA with birth size outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Prenatal exposure to elevated levels of PFOS may be associated with reduced birth size in male infants.
  • These findings highlight potential developmental risks associated with specific PFAS exposure during gestation.

Keywords:
ALSPACBirth sizeBirth weightEndocrine disruptorsPerfluoroalkyl substances

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