New research conducted at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has unveiled significant connections between various types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases in postmenopausal women. The study, led by Alicia Arredondo Eve, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, delves into how PFAS chemicals interact with pro-inflammatory pathways in older women, shedding light on potential mechanisms underlying this heightened risk.

Previous studies had hinted at a possible link between PFAS exposure and cardiovascular disease during menopause, but the biological mechanisms remained poorly understood. Arredondo Eve explains that their focus was on specific PFAS chemicals and their impact on the cardiovascular health of older women, a demographic particularly vulnerable to such diseases.

PFAS, ubiquitous in daily life due to their use in products like nonstick pans, waterproof clothing, food packaging, and even in water supplies, pose a persistent health challenge. These chemicals accumulate in human tissues over time, with some variants capable of remaining in the environment for centuries. Premenopausal women generally have lower PFAS burdens due to mechanisms such as childbirth and breastfeeding, which help expel these chemicals. However, after menopause, PFAS levels tend to rise as these natural elimination pathways diminish.

The study analysed data and samples from 70 postmenopausal women in Turkey, a third of whom had been diagnosed with coronary artery disease, another third with coronary microvascular disease, and the remainder without any signs of heart disease. The researchers specifically examined two long-chain legacy PFAS, PFOS and PFOA, along with a newer short-chain variant, PFBS, using advanced machine-learning techniques to explore their relationships with blood metabolites and proteins.

Their findings highlighted distinct associations between PFOS and PFOA and different cardiovascular conditions: PFOS correlated closely with coronary artery disease, whereas PFOA was more predictive of coronary microvascular disease. Notably, both chemicals were found to interact with inflammatory pathways, known risk factors for these diseases, albeit somewhat unexpectedly. For instance, PFOA showed links to higher levels of specific amino acids and pro-inflammatory cytokines. In comparison, PFOS exhibited associations with lower levels of specific amino acids and different pro-inflammatory proteins.

Arredondo Eve and co-author Zeynep Madak-Erdogan underscored the complexity of PFAS’s effects, noting that despite similar chemical structures, different variants can impact the body uniquely. This underscores the need for nuanced approaches in research and regulatory efforts concerning PFAS exposure.

Despite the study’s significant findings, it underscores the challenge of eliminating PFAS once they enter the body, with limited options for removal. Instead, the researchers advocate for preventive measures, urging women to choose PFAS-free products like clothing and cookware to reduce exposure. They also stress the importance of broader public education and regulatory actions to mitigate environmental PFAS contamination.

Looking ahead, the research team plans to expand their investigations into PFAS’s broader impacts on women’s health, aiming to unravel more of the complex biological mechanisms underlying these associations. Their work adds to the growing body of evidence linking PFAS exposure to cardiovascular risks in postmenopausal women. It underscores the urgent need for informed policies and practices to protect public health from these persistent environmental pollutants.

More information: Alicia Arredondo Eve et al, PFAS and their association with the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women, Toxicological Sciences. DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae065

Journal information: Toxicological Sciences Provided by University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences