UKHSA Launches First Study Into Forever Chemicals in UK Population
Dozens of people living near a major chemical factory in the United Kingdom registered really high levels of cancer-causing forever chemicals in blood tests conducted in September, prompting the UK Health Security Agency to launch the country’s first national population study into per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, according to bbc.co.uk.
Blood and urine samples gathered across England
The UK Health Security Agency is collecting blood and urine samples through the existing Health Survey for England. Researchers aim to establish baseline population levels for PFAS alongside other contaminants including lead, arsenic, bisphenols, phthalates, and flame retardants.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances have been used prolifically since the 1940s and 1950s due to their resistance to water, oil, and heat. Manufacturers built the substances into thousands of consumer items such as pots and pans, clothing, and firefighting foams. Because the chemical bonds do not break down easily in the environment, the substances earned the moniker forever chemicals and generated mounting health concerns over recent decades.
PFOA and PFOS bans follow cancer risks
Two specific forever chemicals—PFOA and PFOS—are already banned in the UK because prolonged exposure increases the risk of cancer, according to the World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer. The broader category of PFAS represents an emerging research field encompassing more than 15,000 distinct types.
Current evidence suggests potential health impacts associated with PFAS are likely to be limited. However, the strongest links identified in large population groups involve raised cholesterol levels and lower birth weights.
Government does not recommend routine PFAS blood testing
Dr Edward Wynne-Evans, director of radiation, chemicals, climate and environmental hazards at the UKHSA, told BBC Radio 4’s Inside Health that significant gaps remain concerning what different levels of exposure mean for an individual’s long-term health.
Growing public concern has led residents living near contaminated sites to seek out individual private blood tests. Despite high readings discovered near chemical manufacturing sites, the UK government does not recommend routine PFAS blood testing for individuals.
Wynne-Evans explained the policy during his broadcast interview, stating that routine screening is not advised because no established clinical intervention exists for patients with elevated levels. If a diagnostic test cannot direct a subsequent medical action, health authorities normally refrain from recommending it.
First results expected next year
The new agency-led investigation intends to construct an evidence base to clarify unfolding environmental and public health risks. The first set of results from the population sampling initiative is expected next year.