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Serum PFAS concentrations and circulating vitamin D in U.S. children: evidence of a paradox

Jhy-Charm Soo1, Kirsten Barrett2, Francis B Kengne2

  • 1Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Environmental Health Sciences, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia. jsoo@georgiasouthern.edu.

Pediatric Research
|June 11, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Higher levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were linked to increased vitamin D in children. This association may indicate vitamin D resistance, not improved health, suggesting potential endocrine disruption.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental contaminants.
  • Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and immune function in children.
  • Previous research suggests potential endocrine-disrupting effects of PFAS.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between serum PFAS concentrations and vitamin D levels in prepubertal children.
  • To explore potential implications of this relationship for child development and endocrine function.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of serum samples from 523 children aged 3-11 years from a nationally representative survey (2013-2014).
  • Measurement of five common PFAS (PFNA, PFHxS, n-PFOA, n-PFOS, Sm-PFOS) and combined PFAS toxicity.
  • Statistical analysis adjusting for age, sex, and other covariates.

Main Results:

  • Positive correlations observed between serum PFAS levels and vitamin D levels.
  • A significant association found where increased Sm-PFOS was linked to higher serum vitamin D.
  • Children in the highest quartile of n-PFOA exposure showed a lower prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency.

Conclusions:

  • Higher PFAS concentrations are associated with elevated vitamin D levels in children.
  • This elevation may represent vitamin D resistance or a compensatory response to impaired vitamin D receptor function.
  • Findings suggest that normal or high vitamin D levels in PFAS-exposed children may mask underlying endocrine and developmental issues.
Abstract

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