A recent study highlights the alarming health risks associated with exposure to so-called “forever chemicals,” specifically targeting adolescents. Researchers have found a significant link between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and an increased likelihood of developing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition that often remains undetected until it has caused serious damage.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in a wide array of products, from cookware to cosmetics, and are known for their ability to repel water and stains. These substances are notorious for their persistence in the environment, leading to widespread contamination of drinking water, soil, and wildlife. According to studies, over 98% of the US population has detectable levels of these chemicals in their bloodstream.
In this latest research conducted by the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine, scientists examined blood samples from 284 adolescents and young adults in Southern California. The study revealed that elevated levels of two common PFAS—perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA)—are correlated with a significantly higher risk of MASLD.
Link Between PFAS and Liver Disease
Dr. Shiwen “Sherlock” Li, the lead author of the study, emphasized the vulnerability of the adolescent population. He stated, “Adolescents are particularly more vulnerable to the health effects of PFAS as it is a critical period of development and growth.” The findings indicate that teenagers with twice the amount of PFOA in their blood are nearly three times more likely to develop MASLD compared to those with lower levels.
The study also identified a genetic variant known as PNPLA3 GG, which affects liver fat storage, as a significant risk factor. Among young adults, the presence of smoking further exacerbated the liver damage associated with PFAS exposure. Dr. Max Aung, an assistant professor of population and public health sciences, noted that “PFAS exposures, genetics, and lifestyle factors work together to influence who has a greater risk of developing MASLD as a function of your life stage.”
Earlier research from USC indicated that obese adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery exhibited more severe liver disease when exposed to PFHpA. Dr. Lida Chatzi, a professor of population and public health sciences, commented on the implications of these studies, stating, “Taken together, the two studies show that PFAS exposures not only disrupt liver biology but also translate into real liver disease risk in youth.”
The Rising Threat of MASLD
The implications of these findings are particularly concerning as the prevalence of MASLD is expected to rise. Currently, about 10% of children in the United States are affected by this condition, with this figure soaring to nearly 40% among children with obesity, according to the American Liver Foundation. The disease often remains asymptomatic until it reaches advanced stages, leading to severe complications such as heart disease, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
Dr. Chatzi highlighted the silent progression of MASLD, stating, “MASLD can progress silently for years before causing serious health problems.” Without treatment, it can lead to life-threatening conditions and is already the second leading cause of liver transplants in the United States. The situation is projected to worsen, with expectations that MASLD will become the leading cause of liver transplants within the next decade.
Despite the grim outlook, there is hope. Lifestyle modifications—including a healthier diet, increased physical activity, and weight management—have demonstrated potential for slowing or reversing liver damage, especially when interventions occur early. Furthermore, the research suggests that reducing adolescents’ exposure to PFAS may play a crucial role in preventing liver disease later in life. Dr. Chatzi concluded, “If we reduce PFAS exposure early, we may help prevent liver disease later. That’s a powerful public-health opportunity.”
As the conversation around PFAS continues to evolve, the findings from this study stress the urgent need for increased awareness and action to mitigate exposure, particularly among vulnerable populations such as teenagers.
