PFAS and microplastics become more toxic when combined, research shows

By: The Guardian

Nov 25, 2024

PFAS and microplastics are among the most pervasive and harmful human-made substances, and new research shows their combined effects can be even more toxic. A recent study from the University of Birmingham exposed water fleas to mixtures of these pollutants, revealing severe health impacts, such as reduced birth rates, stunted growth, and delayed sexual maturity. Alarmingly, the findings highlight that prior exposure to chemical pollution further weakened the fleas’ resilience to new toxic exposures. This research underscores the urgent need to study the combined effects of chemical mixtures on wildlife and human health, as current regulations often consider these substances in isolation.

PFAS are a class of about 15,000 compounds used in water-, stain-, and heat-resistant products. These chemicals accumulate in the environment and the human body, posing risks such as cancer, immune disorders, and birth defects. Microplastics, on the other hand, are tiny plastic particles that can cross the blood-brain barrier and have been linked to developmental issues and hormone disruption. Since microplastics often contain PFAS, their combined presence in the environment is especially concerning.

The study simulated real-world conditions by exposing water fleas to microplastics (PET) and two common PFAS compounds (PFOA and PFOS). The mixture proved significantly more toxic than the substances individually, with about 40% of the increased toxicity attributed to synergistic interactions between the compounds. The findings shed light on the amplified risks of combined chemical exposure and call for regulatory measures that address these interactions to protect ecosystems and human health.

For more information, see the original article and the published study.