PFAS Chemicals Accelerate Aging in Middle-Aged Men

New research suggests that exposure to pervasive toxic chemicals, known as PFAS or "forever chemicals," is accelerating the biological aging process in men between 50 and 65 years old. The analysis, which studied data from over 300 Americans, found a significant link between PFAS exposure and faster epigenetic aging in this demographic.

Epigenetic aging is a key indicator of biological age, reflecting the health of the body's cells and tissues. Accelerated epigenetic aging is associated with increased risks of major health problems, including cancer, dementia, and cardiovascular disease, as well as premature death. While the precise reasons for this disproportionate effect on middle-aged men are not fully detailed, researchers posit that midlife represents a "critical window" where environmental toxicants like PFAS can significantly impact biological aging.

This study utilized data from the CDC's National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, involving 326 men and women aged 50 and older. Previous findings indicate that approximately 98 percent of Americans have encountered these manmade chemicals, which are persistent in the environment and found in numerous consumer products, U.S. water supplies, and even rainwater.

Beyond accelerated aging, PFAS exposure at any age is linked to a range of health concerns, such as higher rates of certain cancers, cardiovascular issues, Alzheimer's disease, high cholesterol, and reduced immune responses. Recent studies have also highlighted specific impacts, including a higher incidence of digestive, endocrine, and respiratory cancers in communities with contaminated drinking water and potential effects on the developing male brain.