Read the full article by Uloma Uche (Environmental Working Group)
“The developing fetus faces a threat from the harmful ‘forever chemicals‘ known as PFAS in their umbilical cord, a new Environmental Working Group science review finds.
EWG scientists have identified dozens of studies published in the past five years that report the presence of PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, in cord blood. The presence of these chemicals is also a threat to pregnant people, serving as first contacts with PFAS before they can pass from the uterus to the developing fetus by way of the umbilical cord.
EWG scientists reviewed 40 studies examining the presence and health effects of PFAS in cord blood. All 40 reported the detection of a wide range of PFAS in the blood. Sixteen studies found associations between PFAS exposure in cord blood and changes in vital body molecules called cord blood lipids, as well as harm to fetal and childhood development.
At least 14 studies found an association between PFAS in cord blood, detection of PFAS later in childhood, or increased risk of health impacts in adulthood, or a combination of all three.” …