80-Minute Sleep Loss in Teens Exposed to “Forever Chemicals”
Summary: igher blood levels of four specific types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” are linked to poorer sleep quality in young adults. These chemicals, found in everyday products and the environment, have been shown to disrupt genes responsible for regulating sleep and wake cycles, leading to decreased sleep duration and more sleep disturbances.
PFAS exposure has long-term health implications, such as cognitive decline and increased risk of neurological diseases. The study highlights the need for stricter regulations on PFAS and further research into their impact on health.
Research led by the Keck School of Medicine of USC has shown that levels of “forever chemicals” in the blood are linked with disruptions to a fundamental pillar of health — sleep.
In the first study to examine that relationship in young adults, participants with higher levels of four specific types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in their blood experienced worse sleep.
