Factors associated with elevated Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances serum levels in older adults

Abstract

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are highly persistent synthetic chemicals that have been produced for more than seven decades. This study examined 6,018 eligible older adults (aged≥ 60 years) using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES),to assess seven PFAS by sociodemographic and water source data to (a) determine factors most linked with elevated PFAS levels and (b) evaluate the differences by race and ethnicity. The results of this study indicated that among older adults, PFAS levels were more elevated in men than women (p < 0.05), non-Hispanic Blacks than other ethnicities (p < 0.05), among those using well water (p < 0.05), and those with lower education (p < 0.05). Income was not a significant factor among this group. These findings offer insight into the factors associated with elevated PFAS levels in older adults. With this knowledge, it is necessary to target education about PFAS among the most vulnerable.

Keywords

• Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances
• Well water
• Education
• Income
• Ethnicity
• Water source