Young US military veterans have higher concentrations of potentially harmful synthetic chemicals known as PFAS in their blood than civilians of the same age, according to a Brown University-led study.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are used in numerous industrial and consumer products because they resist heat, water, oil, and stains.
Often called “forever chemicals,” they break down extremely slowly and can accumulate in the environment and the human body.
In military settings, possible sources include firefighting foams, munitions, and contaminated groundwater.
Researchers found that veterans aged 20 to 39 had PFAS concentrations 13 to 24 percent higher than non-veterans in the same age group, depending on the chemical examined.
Young veterans were also 18 percent more likely to exceed 20 nanograms per milliliter, the level above which the US National Academies recommends medical monitoring because of potential health risks.
Exposure to some PFAS has been linked to kidney and testicular cancers, liver and cardiovascular disease, and thyroid dysfunction.
PFAS Exposure
The researchers analyzed eight cycles of the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2003 and 2018.
After applying national survey weights, the data represented an estimated 22.8 million US adults with previous military service.
The study did not establish the source of the elevated PFAS concentrations.
However, the researchers said the difference may be more apparent among younger veterans because any military-related exposure was likely more recent.
PFAS can remain in the body for years, although concentrations gradually decline after exposure ends.
This may explain why the study found higher levels among veterans aged 20 to 39 but not among older age groups.
Although the study did not find the same pattern among older veterans, the researchers said they may have faced similar risks when they were younger, with PFAS levels declining over time.
Researchers also added that the findings could help shape Veterans Health Administration policies on whether PFAS testing should be covered for veterans.