Exposures to per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Potential risks to reproductive and children's health

Abstract

As the science on the human health effects of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) emerges, there are growing concerns about the potential health impacts on children and reproductive health. PFAS exposure may affect growth, learning, and behavior of infants and older children; lower a woman's chance of getting pregnant; increase cholesterol levels; affect the immune system; and induce vaccine-reduced immune protection in children. Without existing regulation or established standards for testing and treatment, prevention is key. PFAS exposure can occur through a wide range of consumer products and a contaminated drinking water supply. Military bases and surrounding communities have been especially impacted by PFAS in drinking water from the use of firefighting foam for decades.