PFAS e salute: quali rischi per l’uomo?

Perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a series of synthetic chemical compounds that can be found in the environment, potentially associated with various adverse health effects on human health, such as carcinogenicity, immune and genotoxicity, and endocrine disorders. During pregnancy, an increased risk of fetal growth retardation, low birth weight, and preterm birth has also been highlighted; possible delays in motor and cognitive development in children have also been reported, with potential effects on their learning ability and social interaction. The metabolic alterations reported in adults could also be possible in children, with an increased risk of obesity and early puberty. Through direct exposure (ingestion of contaminated substances) and indirect exposure (consumption of foods that have come into contact with PFAS through packaging, storage, and cooking), PFAS can compromise our food security with possible long-term outcomes. This problem is now of global concern and, unfortunately, also affects Italy, as shown by the “Veneto case”, particularly in the provinces of Padua and Verona, where a marked contamination of the sewer system and drinking water of the territory has been found, with very high concentrations of PFAS (>1000 ng/L). From this perspective, the medical and scientific community must be aware of the presence of PFAS in the environment and their possible interference with health to suggest ways to reduce exposure, especially for vulnerable individuals such as children.