New Study Links PFAS Exposure to Increased Colorectal Cancer Risk in Kentucky

Lexington, Kentucky – A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Kentucky highlights alarming health risks associated with prolonged exposure to environmental pollutants known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Specifically, the study indicates a potential link between exposure to PFAS, particularly perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), and an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

The research, led by post-doctoral scholar Josiane Tessmann and supported by Yekaterina Zaytseva, an associate professor in the College of Medicine’s Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, utilized mouse models and human cell lines to investigate the effects of PFOS. Findings suggest that chronic exposure to this chemical can inhibit the activity of the enzyme HMGCS2, which plays a protective role against cancer in the intestines.

This study is pivotal as it marks the first time that the impacts of PFOS on this specific enzyme have been thoroughly examined. In Kentucky, the implications of these findings are significant; state health data revealed that nearly 900 Kentuckians died from colorectal cancer in 2022, highlighting an urgent need for public health interventions.

PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistent nature in the environment, are widely used in various products, including cookware, food packaging, and firefighting foams. In April, the Biden administration introduced new drinking-water regulations requiring utility companies to reduce PFAS levels to measurable standards. Recent testing in Kentucky uncovered that over 83 out of 194 water treatment plants had detectable PFAS levels.

Zaytseva emphasized the challenge of mitigating these pollutants, both environmentally and within the human body. “We try to understand how these pollutants affect human health,” she explained. Researchers aim to not only examine exposure implications but also explore interventions to alleviate its effects. This includes identifying specific dietary changes that could help, although results have thus far indicated that while a high-fiber diet might provide some protection, it cannot completely counteract the enzyme loss linked to PFOS exposure.

The Kentucky General Assembly recently passed a law mandating health plans to cover biomarker testing to improve cancer detection, a critical step towards understanding the long-term effects of chemical exposure in residents. This law is championed by Rep. Kimberly Poore Moser, aiming to lower cancer mortality rates in the state.

As future research develops, Zaytseva reassured the public about managing exposure risks. She noted that while immediate alarm is unwarranted, awareness of PFAS in consumer products and drinking water is essential. “You just need to be kind of aware of this,” she urged, highlighting the potential benefits of using water filters and selecting non-PFAS cooking options.