US study links 'forever chemicals' to higher gut inflammation in children

A study conducted by the Icahn School of Medicine in the United States has found a link between exposure to 'forever chemicals' (PFAS) during pregnancy and childhood and an increased risk of intestinal inflammation and chronic immune diseases early in life.

The study, published in the journal Gastroenterology & Hepatology, explained that chemicals used in non-stick cookware and fast-food packaging accumulate in the body and are associated with higher levels of the inflammation marker calprotectin in children's stool samples.

Researchers noted that while elevated calprotectin does not necessarily mean a child has an autoimmune bowel disease, it indicates a greater likelihood of future inflammation, especially with continued exposure to PFAS.

Risks associated with 'forever chemicals'

The study added that these chemicals are used to make products resistant to water and heat and are found in many everyday items, such as fast-food wrappers, non-stick cookware, dental floss, microwave popcorn bags, certain cosmetics, and some stain-resistant carpets and furniture.

PFAS do not break down easily in the environment or the human body, leading to accumulation over time and links to various health risks, prompting researchers to recommend limiting exposure.