Posted on September 04th, 2024
A large study on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure in humans showed evidence of liver damage caused by the chemical. Because of long-term exposure to the toxic chemical, the serum of all US adults has PFAS in high levels. The accumulation of PFAS in human body tissues, such as the liver, leads to metabolic changes and disruption of liver homeostasis.
PFAS belongs to a class of toxic chemicals that have been used extensively for various industrial purposes for over six decades. Due to their stubborn nature, these chemicals accumulate in the environment and our bodies, causing multiple health issues. PFAS is found in the blood of 98% of US adults, as per the data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Researchers have uncovered the link between long-term exposure to these toxic chemicals and liver damage.
Studies have linked higher PFAS levels to liver damage
In a meta-analysis published in Environmental Health Perspectives, more than 100 studies were reviewed, and it was concluded that PFAS exposure was correlated with an increase in liver disease, indicating enzyme alanine aminotransferase or ALT. As per the new study, liver damage caused by PFAS exposure may be associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). As there is a correlation between PFAS exposure and a change in biomarkers (enzymes), PFAS is indeed harmful to our health.
Results from a study that included 1420 participants suggested that PFAS exposure may be associated with the development of NAFLD. In a study published in JHEP Reports in May 2023, higher serum PFAS was associated with worse liver function and increased risk of fatty liver disease.
How does PFAS affect liver health?
PFAS is an endocrine-disrupting chemical, which means it interferes with our hormones. Because of its chemical structure, PFAS mimics fatty acids and activates the receptors, which fatty acids do, thus leading to the accumulation of fat and liver inflammation. In addition to ALT, PFAS exposure is linked to other biomarkers of fatty liver disease, such as triglycerides, cholesterol, and uric acid. A recent study from JHEP Reports suggests that high levels of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in blood lead to metabolic changes in the liver. The presence of PFOS increases the risk of developing liver cancer by affecting fat metabolism and driving the deposition of fat in the liver. The most common symptoms of liver damage include:
- Yellow discoloration of the skin, the white part of the eyes
- Abdominal swelling
- Pain in the upper right part of the abdomen
- Itchy skin
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
File your PFAS exposure claim with the help of our legal team
We encourage military personnel and their loved ones who have developed liver cancer due to untoward exposure to PFAS to get in touch with our attorneys.
To start the legal process, you must share your military employment records and health records stating your diagnosis or proof of your stay on a contaminated military base. We will review the documents and determine whether you can file a claim.
We will take further steps in the process of filing a claim and ensure you receive the maximum financial compensation.
