### How 'Forever Chemicals' Affect Children's Health A recent study has found that exposure to 'forever chemicals,' scientifically known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), disrupts important biological processes in children and young adults. These chemicals are widely used in consumer products like nonstick cookware, stain-resistant carpets, cosmetics, and water-repellent clothing. The study, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, highlights that PFAS can harm thyroid hormone function, which is crucial for growth and metabolism. This disruption can make children more susceptible to diseases later in life, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. One significant finding of the study is that the harmful effects are caused by a mixture of different PFAS, rather than a single type. PFAS are called 'forever chemicals' because they do not break down easily and can persist in water, soil, and the human body for a long time. Previous research has linked PFAS to various health issues, such as lower birth weights and immune system problems. However, this study is the first to investigate how exposure to multiple PFAS affects biological processes. Researchers analyzed blood samples from 312 children from the Study of Latino Adolescents at Risk and 137 children from the Southern California Children’s Health Study. All the children had a mixture of common PFAS in their blood, including PFOS, PFHxS, PFHpS, PFOA, and PFNA. The study's authors suggest that current efforts to phase out individual PFAS like PFOS and PFOA should be expanded to reduce exposure to all PFAS chemicals. In October 2021, the Biden administration announced a plan to reduce the amount of PFAS released into the air, drinking water, groundwater, and the food supply chain. This initiative aims to mitigate the health risks associated with these persistent chemicals.