Early-life exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may influence how children’s bones develop during adolescence, according to new research published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society. PFAS are synthetic chemicals found in water, food and everyday products.
These “forever chemicals,” many of which persist in the environment and in the human body, may interfere with normal development, including bone growth. “Adolescence is a key period for building strong bones, and achieving optimal bone mass during this time can reduce lifelong risks of fractures and osteoporosis,” said Jessie P.
Buckley, PhD, MPH, of the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health in Chapel Hill, N.C. “Our findings suggest reducing PFAS exposure during key developmental windows could support healthier bones throughout life.” The authors studied the blood PFAS concentrations of 218 teens from a prospective pregnancy and birth cohort at delivery and ages 3, 8, and 12 years old.
They measured bone density at age 12 and found that teens with higher blood perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) levels had lower forearm bone density.
Endocrine News published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 17 Mar 2026.
The item focuses on PFAS Exposure May Weaken Teens’ Bones.
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