A recent study suggests that exposure to per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances or PFAS, known as ‘forever chemicals,’ may accelerate the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells.
The research analyzed exposure levels comparable to those found in firefighters who frequently come into contact with PFAS-containing firefighting foam. Firefighters with higher PFAS blood levels are more prone to CRC. Lab experiments demonstrated that PFAS exposure induced CRC cells to increase mobility, indicating a potential role in cancer metastasis.
The findings emphasize the need for further clinical studies and highlight the potential risks of PFAS exposure, providing crucial information for those in high-exposure occupations and underscoring the importance of safeguarding against these ‘forever chemicals.’