Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), toxic chemicals found in products like nonstick pans and personal care items, can stay in the body for up to 20 years. These “forever chemicals” have raised concern due to their ability to accumulate and cause health problems, said Professor Mingyu Zhang of Harvard Medical School, lead author of a new study.
Zhang’s research found that babies exposed in the womb to certain PFAS—PFDeA, PFNA, and PFUnA—had higher systolic blood pressure (the top number in a reading) later in life. This may happen because these chemicals cross the placenta and affect early development.
“PFAS exposure before birth can impact fetal growth,” Zhang explained. “Inflammation and oxidative stress caused by these chemicals may lead to long-term blood pressure changes.”
The risk was greater in teens, boys, and Black children. Boys with higher PFDeA exposure had a 9% higher risk of high blood pressure from ages 6 to 12, and a 17% higher risk during their teenage years. Zhang noted boys may be more vulnerable to toxins due to slower clearance and greater buildup in their bodies.
Black children showed stronger links between PFAS and high blood pressure, possibly reflecting combined effects of systemic racism, housing segregation, and higher pollutant exposure. “Black and Hispanic communities have historically faced a greater burden of environmental pollutants,” Zhang said.
Some PFAS, like PFHpS, PFOS, and PFOA, were linked to lower diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) in early childhood, but this effect faded and might have reversed in adolescence.
Because PFAS stay in the body for years, their harmful effects may take time to appear.
High blood pressure in childhood often continues into adulthood, increasing the risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. Early blood pressure patterns can set the stage for future health.
Zhang called for more research and policy changes to reduce PFAS exposure. “Meaningful reduction requires action at state and federal levels,” he said. “This will help protect children’s health for generations.”
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