UC Irvine Study Links Early PFAS Exposure to Childhood Leukemia

A UC Irvine-led study has found that early exposure to PFAS 'forever chemicals' is associated with a higher risk of childhood leukemia. - Researchers analyzed dried blood spots from 125 newborns with leukemia and 219 without cancer in Los Angeles County.

- Higher levels of PFOA and PFOS were linked to increased odds of developing acute lymphoblastic leukemia. - The study also identified 26 additional PFAS compounds, some rarely studied, with similar patterns.

- While not proving cause and effect, the findings add to evidence that early-life PFAS exposure may contribute to childhood cancer risk, prompting calls for further research.