New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals,” are present in the blood of the vast majority of Australians. The findings, based on blood samples collected between 2022 and 2024, confirm widespread exposure to these persistent chemicals across the population.
The presence of PFAS in human blood has raised questions about the potential health risks posed by these substances, which have been used in consumer products and firefighting foams since the mid-20th century.
Persistent Chemicals Found in Nearly All Australians
According to the ABS, PFAS chemicals were detected in blood samples from nearly 7,000 people aged 12 and over, representing a broad cross-section of the Australian population.
Three types of PFAS were found in over 85% of samples, with perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) detected in 98.6%, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in 96.1%, and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) in 88.1%.
PFAS are synthetic compounds notable for their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, which prevent them from breaking down easily in the environment or the human body. Their use has been widespread, from non-stick cookware to firefighting foams, which has led to environmental contamination and bioaccumulation in humans.
The data revealed that PFOS levels tend to increase with age and are higher in males, possibly due to biological differences such as elimination through menstruation and breastfeeding in females.
PFOA, recently classified by the World Health Organization as a carcinogen, was also found in high proportions of the population, underscoring the extent of exposure.
Health Implications Remain Uncertain but Warrant Monitoring
The ABS report noted associations between elevated PFAS levels and markers of chronic disease, including high cholesterol, diabetes, and reduced kidney function. However, the data alone cannot confirm direct causation, and other factors such as lifestyle or occupational exposure may influence these findings.
According to experts, while the presence of PFAS in the bloodstream is widespread, current scientific evidence does not conclusively link the typical concentrations found in the Australian population to specific health outcomes.
The Department of Health acknowledges some biological effects related to PFAS exposure but highlights the need for ongoing research.
Communities with known contamination, such as those near firefighting training sites or industrial areas, face higher exposure risks and concerns. The ABS data serves as a valuable baseline for health professionals and policymakers to monitor PFAS levels and manage potential risks.
While PFAS levels in Australia appear lower than in some other countries, the persistence of these chemicals in the environment and human body underscores the importance of continued surveillance and precautionary public health measures.
