US Study Detects 'Forever Chemicals' (PFAS) in 98.8% of Human Blood Samples

Exam-focused facts from the 17 May 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

A US study found perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as forever chemicals, in 98.8% of tested human blood samples.
The research, conducted by NMS Labs in Pennsylvania, analysed 10,566 blood samples and identified over 70 different combinations of PFAS.
The PFAS group comprises over 15,000 chemicals used in food packaging, furniture, and clothing that persist in the environment without breaking down easily.
PFHxS, a chemical used in glue, furniture, and textiles, was detected in 97.9% of the samples and is linked to liver and immune system concerns.
The study, published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, tested for 13 common PFAS and noted that most individuals carry five or more of these chemicals.