AI Image
2 ‘forever chemicals’ associated with higher risk of breast cancer: Study
FOX 13 Tampa Bay • • health
Key Points:
- A recent National Institutes of Health study linked two "forever chemicals," PFOA and PFOS (types of PFAS), to a significantly higher risk of aggressive ER-negative breast cancer, with rates 67% and 93% higher respectively among women with elevated blood levels.
- Although no clear overall association between these chemicals and breast cancer risk was found, researchers emphasize the need for further investigation into PFAS's health impacts.
- ER-negative breast cancer is a particularly aggressive form that lacks hormone receptors, making it difficult to treat with standard therapies.
- PFAS are synthetic chemicals commonly found in everyday products like nonstick cookware and food packaging, and while older compounds are being phased out, newer replacements require thorough study.
- Health officials stress that understanding environmental links to breast cancer is crucial for reducing exposure and protecting long-term health.
