Association between exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and missed miscarriage: A hospital-based case-control study in Shanghai, China
Study Purpose: This study investigated the relationship between PFAS exposure and missed miscarriage in a hospital-based, case-control study in Shanghai, China.
Study Conclusion: BKMR analysis confirmed higher overall PFAS levels were associated with increased miscarriage risk. These findings highlight the potential reproductive toxicity of PFAS and underscore the need for further investigations and regulatory actions to mitigate PFAS exposure in pregnant women.
A Prospective Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances from Early Pregnancy to Delivery in the Atlanta African American Maternal–Child Cohort
Study Purpose: Longitudinal trends in per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) serum concentrations across pregnancy have not been thoroughly examined, despite evidence linking prenatal PFAS exposures with adverse birth outcomes.
Study Conclusion: The study found that the concentrations of most PFAS increased during pregnancy, and the magnitude of variability differed by individual PFAS. Future studies are needed to understand the influence of within-person PFAS variability during and after pregnancy on birth outcomes.
Pregnancy complications and birth outcomes following low-level exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the vitamin D antenatal asthma reduction trial
Study Purpose: In this PFAS study, they investigated PFAS exposure and adverse prenatal and birth outcomes in an understudied racially diverse and socioeconomically vulnerable population from a multi-center study.
Study Conclusion: In this multi-city study, they detected lower levels of PFAS than in many previous US environmental studies, concordant with current US trends indicating environmental PFAS levels are falling, and we note geographical variation in the associations between PFAS levels and birth outcomes.
Maternal Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Offspring Chromosomal Abnormalities: The Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Study Purpose: Although recent in vitro experimental results have raised the question of whether maternal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may be a potential environmental risk factor for chromosomal abnormalities, epidemiological studies investigating these associations are lacking.
Study Conclusion: The study findings suggested a potential association between maternal exposure to PFAS, particularly PFOS, and chromosomal abnormalities in offspring.
The predictive utility of the in utero exposome for childhood adiposity in independent and integrated frameworks
Study Purpose: This study assess the perinatal exposome comprising maternal social, behavioral, perinatal clinical risk factors, chemical, and cord blood epigenetic predictors of offspring BMI and directly-measured fat mass at ages 4–7 years. This study considered three groups of predictors—maternal perinatal clinical characteristics, chemical exposures and the cord blood epigenome—using independent (i.e., agnostic to all other groups) and integrated (i.e., inclusive of all groups) modelling frameworks to identify the best exposome-wide approach and model for predicting childhood obesity.
Study Conclusion: In this study sample, perinatal chemical exposures and the epigenome
have low utility in predicting childhood adiposity, beyond known clinical risk factors.
Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Relation to the Participant-Reported Total Pregnancy and Live Birth Numbers among Reproductive-Aged Women in the United States
Study Purpose: Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), widely utilized in various industries,
may pose potential reproductive well-being risks. However, the research on the impact of PFAS
exposures on pregnancy and live birth rates remains scarce. To address this gap, we conducted a cross-sectional study using the data from the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) collected between 2013 and 2018.
Study Conclusion: In conclusion, our study demonstrated that PFAS exposures are associated with a decrease in the total pregnancy and live birth numbers in women. For PFAS mixtures, PFNA was identified as the major negative factor. Our findings may serve as a foundation for further research to corroborate our findings.
Maternal and paternal preconception serum concentrations of per and polyfluoroalkyl substances in relation to birth outcomes
Study Purpose: Prenatal exposure to per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is associated with lower birthweight and shorter gestational age. To our knowledge, no studies have examined maternal and paternal preconception PFAS exposure in relation to birth outcomes.
Study Conclusion: In this prospective cohort of subfertile couples, maternal preconception serum concentrations of PFOS, PFHxS, and the total PFAS mixture were inversely associated with birthweight, while opposite associations with birthweight were found for paternal preconception PFOS and PFHxS. Future research with larger sample sizes would assist in validating these finding.
Association between prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and infant anthropometry: A prospective cohort study
Study Purpose: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic organic chemicals with potential endocrine-disrupting effects, and have been found to impair the physical growth of offspring in both experimental and epidemiological studies. We aimed to investigate the effects of prenatal PFAS exposure on repeated measurements of multiple anthropometric indicators in infants.
Study Conclusion: In this prospective study, we observed associations between prenatal
PFAS exposure and increased risk of adiposity in female infants using several anthropometric indicators collected across infancy. We also observed an association of PFOA exposure with weight, arm, and head circumference in male infants. Our findings suggest that prenatal exposure to PFAS may disrupt the growth trajectory of infants. Further studies are warranted to elaborate the sex differences in these associations.
Associations of prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and fetal sex hormones in the Guangxi Zhuang Birth Cohort Study: Greater effect of long-chain PFAS
Study Purpose: Fetal sex hormone homeostasis disruption could lead to reproductive and developmental abnormalities. However, previous studies have reported inconsistent findings regarding the association of maternal per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure with fetal sex hormone levels.
Study Conclusion: This study suggested that prenatal exposure to PFAS mixtures is associated with fetal sex hormones, and long-chain PFAS may play an important role in this association. Furthermore, sex differences in the association of maternal PFAS exposure with E2 and P4 levels need additional attention.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and fetal growth: A nation-wide register-based study on PFAS in drinking water
Study Purpose: To assess associations between PFAS and fetal growth.
Study Conclusion: In conclusion, we observed an association of the sum of PFAS4 – especially PFOS – with increased risk of LGA, but not with SGA or birthweight. The limitations linked to the exposure assessment still require caution in the interpretation.
Associations of a Prenatal Serum Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Mixture with the Cord Serum Metabolome in the HOME Study
Study Purpose: While numerous statistical methods have been developed to quantify the potential effects of chemical mixtures, few studies have evaluated the impact of PFAS mixtures on the fetal metabolome. Understanding the impact of PFAS exposures on the fetal metabolome is important because PFAS can cross the placenta, and the fetus may be more sensitive to environmental exposures compared to later life stages. To address these research gaps, this study evaluated the impact of a mixture of PFAS [PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA)] concentrations on the fetal metabolome.
Study Conclusion: This found that a mixture of PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, and PFHxS in maternal serum was significantly associated with four molecular features and 49 enriched pathways related to
amino acid metabolism, glycan biosynthesis and metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism, and metabolism of cofactors and vitamins in the cord serum metabolome, which was consistent with previous studies.
Prenatal Exposure to PFAS, Associations with Preterm Birth and Modification by Maternal Estrogen Levels: The Maoming Birth Study
Study Purpose: Assessing modification of PFAS-preterm birth associations by the different estrogen types may shed light on the reproductive toxicity of PFAS exposure and inform public health strategies for maternal and child health. In this context, we examined associations between maternal PFAS exposure and preterm birth in 879 Chinese women and then further explored if these associations were modified by
estrogen profile.
Study Conclusion: Our findings suggest that estrogen modified the association between maternal PFAS exposure and preterm birth. Further studies on maternal PFAS exposure and preterm birth, taking interaction effects of cord estrogens into account, are warranted.
Prenatal and Early Postnatal Exposure to Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs): What Is the Correlation between Dioxins and Long-Chain Per- and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS)?
Study Purpose: The study purpose is to investigate the potential correlation between prenatal and early postnatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs), specifically dioxins and long-chain per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), and their impact on male reproductive health in adulthood. The study also aims to highlight the need for cautious interpretation of epidemiological data and the consideration of other lifestyle factors that may influence male reproductive health.
Study Conclusion: The study concludes that there is a moderate correlation between dioxin I-TEq and the four PFAS in maternal blood drawn 11 months after delivery. The study suggests that the observed correlations of plasma levels of dioxins and PFAS make simple association analyses of biological parameters and single compound groups difficult with respect to generating hypotheses of causal relationships, if not all compound groups can be analyzed in parallel. The study also highlights the need for cautious interpretation of epidemiological data with respect to causality, given the complex issue of co-exposure of different possible agents in a mixture with different doses, different possible windows of exposure, and the long latency time between exposure and possible effects.
Environmental exposure to per- and perfluoroalkyl substances in early pregnancy and newborn anogenital distance: A prospective cohort study
Study Purpose: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the potential associations between maternal exposure to PFAS during pregnancy and AGD in newborns.
Study Conclusion: This prospective cohort study has yielded additional evidence supporting the notion that PFAS exposure has the potential to influence AGD in both boys and girls.
Prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and DNA methylation in the placenta: A prospective cohort study
Study Purpose: Epidemiological studies regarding the relationship between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and DNA methylation were limited. We investigated the associations of maternal PFAS concentrations with placental DNA
methylation and examined the mediating role of methylation changes between PFAS and infant development.
Study Conclusion: Prenatal exposure to PFAS may contribute to alterations in the DNA methylation profile of the placental genome, most notably in angiogenesis and neurological development. Among the five candidate genes(i.e., CHST7, FGF13, IRS4, PHOX2A, and PLXDC1), placental DNA methylation of CHST7, IRS4, and PLXDC1 was associated with PFAS exposure. Additionally, decreased methylation of PLXDC1 may mediatethe association between PFOA exposure and increased risk of developmental delay in infants.
Prenatal per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure in relation to preterm birth subtypes and size-for-gestational age in the LIFECODES cohort 2006-2008
Study Purpose: Many studies have linked prenatal PFAS exposure with increased risk of preterm birth and small for gestational age. This study examines associations of PFAS with subtypes of preterm birth, birthweight, and size for gestational age.
Study Conclusion: The effects of prenatal exposure to single and multiple types of PFAS on preterm birth and large for gestational age depend on the sex of the offspring.
Fetal Glucocorticoid Mediates the Association between Prenatal Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Exposure and Neonatal Growth Index: Evidence from a Birth Cohort Study
Study Purpose: Glucocorticoid plays a role in the growth and organ development of the fetus. However, the effect of glucocorticoid on the association between PFAS exposure and fetal growth is unknown. This study measurements cortisol (active glucocorticoid in humans) and PFAS in maternal serum. The effects of newborn cortisol levels on the relationship between maternal PFAS and the neonatal growth index were estimated.
Study Conclusion: These findings suggest that fetal glucocorticoid can affect the relationship between prenatal PFAS exposure and neonatal growth index. Higher maternal PFAS was also associated with greater fetal cortisol.
Associations between maternal exposure to perfluoroalkylated substances (PFASs) and infant birth weight: a meta-analysis
Study Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate associations between maternal exposure to PFAS and infant birth weight.
Study Conclusion: These findings suggest an adverse relationship between maternal exposure to PFAS during pregnancy and infant birth weight, and this relationship appears to vary by the type of PFAS and the geographical region.
Association between prenatal exposure to perfluoroalkyl substance mixtures and intrauterine growth restriction risk: A large, nested case-control study in Guangxi, China
Study Purpose: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is an abnormal fetal growth pattern that can affect neonatal development. IUGR may be affected by prenatal exposure to environmental pollutants, but research linking PFAS exposure to IUGR is limited, with inconsistent results. This study aims to investigate the association between PFAS exposure and IUGR.
Study Conclusion: This study observed a relationship between increasing maternal exposure to PFHpA, PFDoA, and PFHxS with the risk of IUGR. Further study is needed to better understand the mechanisms behind this relationship.
Newborn metabolomic signatures of maternal per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance exposure and reduced length of gestation
Study Purpose: This study assessed the relationship between prenatal PFAS exposure and gestational age at birth and other birth outcomes among African Americans in Atlanta, GA.
Study Conclusion: Increases in maternal PFAS levels were associated with early term birth and medically indicated early birth prior to full-term. Newborn blood samples revealed disruptions in biological pathways that may be related to the PFAS and gestational at birth findings.
Association between perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances exposure and fetal overgrowth: A prospective birth cohort study conducted in China
Study Purpose: Prenatal exposure to PFAS has been associated with gestational diabetes and increased body fatness, but data on fetal overgrowth outcomes, including macrosomia and large for gestational age (LGA) is lacking. This study explores the relationship between maternal PFAS exposure and macrosomia and large for gestational age.
Study Conclusion: This study suggests that associations between PFAS and fetal overgrowth depend on the level of exposure. When the level of PFDA exceeded a threshold, it was associated with greater risks of developing macrosomia and LGA. When PFOA levels reached a threshold, it was associated with a higher risk of macrosomia.
Prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and pregnancy outcome in Austria
Study Purpose: PFAS may harm reproductive health. This study investigates possible associations between prenatal PFAS exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Study Conclusion: This study found that exposure to PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, and PFNA has decreased from 2010/2012 to 2017/2019. Further studies are needed to assess the relationship between prenatal PFAS exposure and pregnancy outcomes, in particular to confirm findings in this study of elevated PFDA levels contributing to increased risk of small for gestational age.
Association of Early Pregnancy Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Exposure With Birth Outcomes
Study Purpose: PFAS have been linked to adverse birth outcomes. Previous research has shown that higher folate levels are associated with lower blood PFAS concentrations. This study examines whether prenatal folate levels modify the relationship between pregnancy PFAS concentrations, birth weight, and gestational age.
Study Conclusion: In this study, higher early pregnancy PFAS concentrations were associated with lower birth weight and gestational age, and higher risk of low birth weight only among mothers whose early pregnancy dietary folate intake or plasma folate levels were low (below the 25th percentiles). Findings suggest that mothers with the lowest folate status were more susceptible to PFAS-related adverse birth outcomes. These findings should be confirmed in future studies.
Metals and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances mixtures and birth outcomes in the New Hampshire Birth Cohort Study: Beyond single-class mixture approaches
Study Purpose: This study aims to investigate the joint and individual impacts of PFAS, toxic metals, and essential elements on birth outcomes in a group of mothers and children.
Study Conclusion: This study identified a positive relationship between prenatal manganese (Mn) and head circumference at birth among male infants. Our findings suggest that, within the range of concentrations represented in our population, higher maternal Mn in pregnancy may contribute to a larger infant head circumference at birth. These findings need to be further investigated.
Pregnancy-related hemodynamic biomarkers in relation to trimester-specific maternal per - and polyfluoroalkyl substances exposures and adverse birth outcomes
Study Purpose: The distribution of PFAS in maternal and fetal tissues might be affected by pregnancy-related cardiovascular changes that occur. During pregnancy, blood volume increases and kidney function changes. These changes are thought to affect associations between PFAS exposure measures in late pregnancy with gestational length and fetal growth. This study analyzes two pregnancy-related cardiovascular markers, creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (a marker of kidney function), as factors affecting trimester-specific relationships between maternal PFAS concentrations and adverse birth outcomes.
Study Conclusion: The results presented here demonstrate that the associations between prenatal PFAS exposure and adverse birth outcomes are modestly influenced by trimester of pregnancy, but are not strongly influenced by pregnancy-related cardiovascular changes.
Unveiling Distribution of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Matched Placenta-Serum Tetrads: Novel Implications for Birth Outcome Mediated by Placental Vascular Disruption
Study Purpose: The placenta is needed for fetal development and can be a source of exposure to PFAS chemicals for the fetus. In this study, fetal-side placenta, maternal-side placenta, cord blood, and maternal blood samples were collected and PFAS levels measured to understand the distribution of PFAS in the placenta.
Study Conclusion: This study explored comprehensive PFAS distribution profiles in placental-serum tetrads and revealed adverse placental vascular effects of PFASs.
Mediation effects of DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation on birth outcomes after prenatal per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure in the Michigan mother-infant Pairs cohort
Study Purpose: PFAS may impact development of the genome, but current human evidence is limited to assessments of total DNA methylation, or DNA changes. This study assessed the associations between first trimester PFAS exposures with newborn DNA methylation. Then, the study evaluates associations between PFAS exposure and birth outcomes and whether DNA methylation impacts this association.
Study Conclusion: This study demonstrates the role of specific types of DNA methylation on the relationship between PFAS exposure and birth outcomes. These results suggest that 5-mC and 5-hmC DNA methylation may be more sensitive to the developmental impacts of PFAS than total DNA methylation.
Mediating effect of endocrine hormones on association between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances exposure and birth size: Findings from sheyang mini birth cohort study
Study Purpose: Prenatal exposure to PFAS has been reported to affect fetal growth, but current results have been inconsistent and the mechanism remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the associations of prenatal exposure to single and/or multiple PFAS with birth size and to investigate whether thyroid hormones and reproductive hormones impact these associations.
Study Conclusion: Prenatal PFAS mixture exposure, especially PFNA, was associated with larger birth size. Neonatal thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels partially affected this relationship.
Prenatal exposure to persistent and non-persistent chemical mixtures and associations with adverse birth outcomes in the Atlanta African American Maternal-Child Cohort
Study Purpose: African Americans experience higher rates of preterm birth and fetal growth restriction relative to other pregnant populations. Different exposure prenatally to environmental chemicals may partially explain these health disparities, as African Americans are disproportionately exposed to environmental hazards. This study examines the individual and mixture effects of PFAS and other environmental chemicals on gestational age at birth and birthweight for gestational age within a study of pregnant African Americans.
Study Conclusion: These findings suggest that prenatal exposure to multiple classes of environmental chemicals is associated with reduced gestational age and birthweight in African Americans.
Serum Concentrations of Selected Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) in Pregnant Women and Associations with Birth Outcomes. A Cross-Sectional Study from Southern Malawi
Study Purpose: Exposure to PFAS has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. The aim of this study was to examine factors associated with different serum PFAS concentrations in late pregnancy and their relationship with birth outcomes in Malawi.
Study Conclusion: Area of residence was the predictor for high concentrations of PFASs detected in serum of women from urban settings. Maternal serum PFAS concentrations were associated with some but not all birth outcomes. PFAS concentrations assessed in the present study, except PFHxS, are lower as compared to other parts of the world. Follow-up studies are needed to evaluate the association between the source of drinking water and maternal serum PFAS concentrations.
Prenatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants and changes in infant growth and childhood growth trajectories
Study Purpose: This study investigates associations between prenatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants, including PFAS, and growth during infancy and childhood.
Study Conclusion: This study provides some support for the effect of prenatal PCB-153 on elevated infant growth. Prenatal p,p’-DDE may be associated with reduced infant growth. No persistent effects of prenatal POP exposures across childhood were observed. Larger prospective studies with repeated measures and advanced multi-pollutant approaches are warranted to validate these results and inform policy recommendations.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of birthweight and PFNA exposures
Study Purpose: This paper reviews published literature on the association between PFNA exposure and birthweight and assessed the potential risk of bias and sensitivity in the included studies. As part of this effort, the study assesses statistical similarities between the studies, evaluates the potential for publication bias, and uses meta-analyses to highlight any differences.
Study Conclusion: Overall, we detected a sizeable deficit in mean birthweight per each unit increase of PFNA that was seen across numerous analyses and showed little evidence of either publication bias or between-study heterogeneity. Importantly, this is the first PFAS meta-analysis to report birthweight deficits that do not appear to be fully explained by sample timing considerations and pregnancy hemodynamics.
Reduced Birth Weight and Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances: A Review of Possible Underlying Mechanisms Using the AOP-HelpFinder
Study Purpose: Prenatal exposure to PFAS may impair fetal growth. This study used the Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP)-helpFinder tool to search PubMed for studies published until March 2021 that examined PFAS exposure in relation to birth weight, oxidative stress, hormones/hormone receptors, or growth signaling pathways.
Study Conclusion: Overall, data suggest thyroid-damaging effects of PFAS affecting thyroid hormones, thyroid hormone gene expression, and histology that are associated in animal studies with decreased body and organ weight. The effects of PFAS on the complex relationships between oxidative stress, endocrine system function, adipogenesis, and fetal growth should be further explored.
Detected prenatal perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) exposure is associated with decreased fetal head biometric parameters in participants experiencing higher perceived stress during pregnancy in the MADRES cohort
Study Purpose: PFAS are known to cross the placenta during pregnancy. This study examines the influence of maternal PFAS levels on in utero fetal growth trajectories and assessed whether maternal stress modified these associations.
Study Conclusion: Maternal serum PFOA concentrations were associated with lower fetal head circumference and biparietal diameter growth trajectories across pregnancy and these associations were stronger among participants reporting higher levels of perceived stress.
High maternal glucose exacerbates the association between prenatal per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance exposure and reduced birth weight
Study Purpose: PFAS exposure has been associated with reduced birth weight. However, the association may be complicated by glucose status due to PFAS impact on fetal growth and placental transport. The objective of this study was to examine whether maternal glucose status modifies the association between prenatal PFAS exposure and birth weight z-score.
Study Conclusion: High maternal glucose level may increase the risk of reduced birth weight z-score related to prenatal PFAS exposure. Moreover, exploring these estimated effects with different FPG cutoffs may contribute to providing intervention strategies for pregnant women with high PFAS exposure.
Perfluoroalkyl Mixture Exposure in Relation to Fetal Growth: Potential Roles of Maternal Characteristics and Associations with Birth Outcomes
Study Purpose: PFAS exposure is suggested to interfere with fetal growth. However, limited investigations considered the roles of parity and delivery on PFAS distributions and the joint effects of PFAS mixtures on birth outcomes.
Study Conclusion: Maternal age, BMI, parity, and delivery mode were considered as influencing factors of PFAS burden. Multivariate linear regression suggested that prenatal exposure to PFOA, PFOS, and PFNS significantly reduced neonatal birth weight. PFHpA and PFHpS exposure were associated with increased respiration scores. PFOA and PFNS were identified as risk factors to preterm birth.
Gestational exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances is associated with placental DNA methylation and birth size
Study Purpose: DNA methylation is one potential mechanism for the effects of gestational exposure to PFAS on fetal growth. This study investigated pregnant women who participated in a study in Northern China and determined the concentrations of PFAS and the methylation of two genes related to fetal growth and one marker for methylation in placental tissue.
Study Conclusion: This study measured 11 PFASs and DNA methylation of two typical genes related to fetal growth (IGF2 and NR3C1) and one surrogate marker for global genome (LINE-1) in the placenta of Chinese pregnant women. The data indicated that intrauterine PFASs exposure affected placental DNA methylation and reduced fetal growth and these effects showed some sex-specific differences. In view of relatively small sample size, more studies are needed to interrogate these findings.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and psychosocial stressors have a joint effect on adverse pregnancy outcomes in the Atlanta African American Maternal-Child cohort
Study Purpose: African Americans experience high rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes relative to white Americans. Differences in in utero exposure to environmental chemicals and psychosocial stressors may explain some of these disparities, as exposures to PFAS and experiences of discrimination have been linked to adverse birth outcomes. This study examines the joint effects of PFAS and psychosocial stress on birth outcomes in African Americans.
Study Conclusion: This study found that a simultaneous increase in in utero PFAS exposure and psychosocial stressors was associated with reduced birthweight for gestational age.
Preconception exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances and couple fecundity: A couple-based exploration
Study Purpose: This study aimed to assess the effects of PFAS on time to pregnancy and infertility, with a focus on the effects of PFAS exposure from either partner.
Study Conclusion: In this study population, exposure to 6:2 diPAP and PFHpA (two emerging PFAS replacement) in women was associated with reduced couple fecundity, which was shown as prolonged time to pregnancy and increased risk of infertility. Certain PFAS protected couple fecundity in men, suggesting that PFAS may exert different effects in men and women related to couple fecundity.
Association between prenatal exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances and anogenital distance in female neonates
Study Purpose: Anogenital distance (AGD) is a marker of intrauterine androgen exposure and an indicator of genital development. An animal study reported that female rats exposed to PFOA or PFOS during 1-5 days following birth exhibited longer AGD, while studies in humans have been inconsistent. This study aimed to examine the effects of prenatal exposure to PFAS on the AGD in female neonates.
Study Conclusion: High maternal concentrations of PFAS were associated with increased AGD in female neonates, indicating that PFAS may impair reproductive development in female offspring in early life.
Associations of prenatal exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances with preterm birth: A family-based birth cohort study
Study Purpose: Studies have investigated associations between maternal exposure to PFAS and preterm birth, but the impact of paternal and overall family exposure to PFAS mixtures on preterm birth remains unknown. To address this knowledge gap, a total of 355 preterm births and 481 controls were selected for a family-based birth cohort study in a coastal area of China, between 2016 and 2018.
Study Conclusion: These results suggest that higher family-level PFNA and PFDA exposure was associated with greater preterm birth risk, although the results for individual paternal, maternal and neonatal PFAS exposures were contradictory. These findings highlight a need to study further family PFAS concentrations and seafood consumption when assessing reproductive toxicity.
Gestational per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances exposure and infant body mass index trajectory in the New Hampshire Birth Cohort Study
Study Purpose: Mothers participating in the New Hampshire Birth Cohort Study (NHBCS) provided a plasma sample during pregnancy to measure concentrations of seven PFAS, and infant weight and length were measured in infants between birth and 12 months.
Study Conclusion: This study observed sex-specific associations of prenatal PFAS during pregnancy with growth patterns during infancy. Greater BMI growth during the first year was observed among girls to mothers with higher pregnancy concentrations of PFOS.
Effect of perfluoroalkyl exposure in pregnancy and infancy on intrauterine and childhood growth and anthropometry. Sub study from COPSAC2010 birth cohort
Study Purpose: PFOS and PFOA have a range of suspected negative health effects. It is hypothesized that exposure during prenatal and early postnatal life may have effects on intrauterine and childhood growth. This study investigates effects of PFOS and PFOS in pregnancy and infancy on intrauterine and childhood growth and anthropometry.
Study Conclusion: Higher PFOS and PFOA plasma concentrations during pregnancy had detrimental effects on fetal growth. The effects on childhood growth were not similar as PFOA increased child height, opposite of PFOS in models. Sex specific growth effects were affected by an altered lactosyl-ceramide metabolism, which may be a possible effect of PFOS exposure.
Association of single and multiple perfluoroalkyl substances exposure with preterm birth: Results from a Chinese birth cohort study
Study Purpose: PFAS are persistent organic pollutants that may lead to adverse birth outcomes, such as preterm birth (PTB). However, previous studies have reported inconsistent results on the association between PFASs and PTB, and lack of the epidemiological evidence regarding the effect of PFASs mixture on PTB. This study aimed to explore association of individual and multiple exposure to PFASs with PTB.
Study Conclusion: Overall, this study provided evidence of the effect of PFAS on preterm birth and found that prenatal exposure to PFAS mixtures was associated with higher risk of preterm birth, in which PFHpA, PFOS, and PFBS were the main contributors.
Prenatal PFAS and psychosocial stress exposures in relation to fetal growth in two pregnancy cohorts: Applying environmental mixture methods to chemical and non-chemical stressors
Study Purpose: Prenatal exposure to individual PFAS and psychosocial stressors have been associated with reductions in fetal growth. Studies suggest cumulative or joint effects of chemical and non-chemical stressors on fetal growth. However, few studies have examined PFAS and non-chemical stressors together as a mixture, which better reflects real life exposure patterns. We examined joint associations between PFAS, perceived stress, and depression, and fetal growth using two approaches developed for exposure mixtures.
Study Conclusion: The study found that PFAS, perceived stress, and depression in combination were modestly associated with less fetal growth, which supports prior studies indicating that chemical and non-chemical stressors are jointly associated with adverse health outcomes.
Association Between Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Birth Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Study Purpose: Emerging evidence suggests that PFAS affect birth outcomes, but the evidence is inconsistent. Therefore, this study aimed to systematically review the epidemiological evidence on PFAS exposure and birth outcomes.
Study Conclusion: This study showed that PFAS exposure was significantly associated with increased risks of various adverse birth outcomes and that different birth outcome indicators had different degrees of sensitivity to PFAS. More studies are needed to confirm these results.
Associations between prenatal exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances, hypomethylation of MEST imprinted gene and birth outcomes
Study Purpose: PFAS exposure has been linked to adverse birth outcomes, but the underlying mechanism is not understood. DNA methylation changes in the MEST gene may be a mechanism of the prenatal exposure effects of PFASs on fetal growth. The aim of the study was to investigate the prenatal PFAS exposure effects on DNA methylation changes in MEST genes involved in fetal growth.
Study Conclusion: In conclusion, our results suggest that prenatal PFAS exposure, especially PFOS, is associated with lower methylation levels at MEST promoter region, which not only leverages the role of imprinted gene in ensuring the integrity of fetal growth but also provides a potential mechanism for evaluating the prenatal exposure effect.
High in Utero Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Substances from Drinking Water and Birth Weight: A Cohort Study among Infants in Ronneby, Sweden
Study Purpose: In utero PFAS exposure can influence birth weight, but little is known about the effects at very high levels. This study aimed to examine the association between in utero PFAS exposure and birth weight.
Study Conclusion: This study shows that high exposure to PFAS may influence birth weight in a sex-specific way, though this is likely a minor influence.
Concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in human placental tissues and associations with birth outcomes
Study Purpose: Previous studies have observed associations between maternal serum PFAS concentrations and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes such as lower birth weight or pre-eclampsia; however, few studies have explored these associations with birth outcomes and placental tissue PFAS concentrations. The goal of this study was to measure placental PFAS concentrations and examine associations with birth outcomes.
Study Conclusion: The present study shows that several PFAS are frequently detected in the placenta, and our observed associations with birth outcomes indicate potential concern for adverse health effects on infants exposed to the highest levels of PFAS exposure. In this study, PFAS placental exposure was associated with sex-specific birth outcomes. They found that the highest exposure of placental PFOS was associated with lower birth weight for gestational age in infant males and higher birth weight in female infants.
Relationships between maternal perfluoroalkyl substance levels, polymorphisms of receptor genes, and adverse birth outcomes in the Hokkaido birth cohort study, Japan
Study Purpose: The goal of this study was to look at the association between PFOA and PFOS in third trimester women's blood samples, maternal genotypes, and birth outcomes in their children.
Study Conclusion: PFOS levels during pregnancy were associated with decreased birth weight, chest circumference, and birth Ponderal index (a measure of thinness at birth) and that those associations were different according to the maternal genotype LXRB. Further studies may help identify more vulnerable or preventive genetic groups.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) exposure, maternal metabolomic perturbation, and fetal growth in African American women: A meet-in-the-middle approach
Study Purpose: Prenatal exposures to PFAS have been linked to reduced fetal growth. This study aims to investigate biological pathways and biomarkers underlying the association between serum PFAS and fetal growth using high-resolution metabolomics in a cohort of pregnant African American women in the Atlanta area, Georgia.
Study Conclusion: In this cohort of pregnant African American women, higher serum concentrations of PFOA and PFNA were associated with reduced fetal growth. Perturbations of biological pathways involved in amino acid, lipid and fatty acid, bile acid, and androgenic hormone metabolism were associated with PFAS exposures and reduced fetal growth, and uric acid was shown to be a potential intermediate biomarker. Our results provide opportunities for future studies to develop early detection and intervention for PFAS-induced fetal growth restriction.
Associations between exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances and birth outcomes: A meta-analysis
Study Purpose: This study reviews the published literature on the effects of prenatal PFAS exposure on birth outcomes, specifically premature birth, low birth weight, small for gestational age, and miscarriage.
Study Conclusion: In this study, we observed significant associations between PFOS and premature birth, PFOA and miscarriage, and PFOS and low birth weight. Study region, sampling time, and sample were potential sources of differences between the studies included in this paper.
Association of maternal exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances with infant growth from birth to 12 months: A prospective cohort study
Study Purpose: Although maternal PFASs have been associated with adverse birth outcomes, much less is known about their impact on infant growth during early infancy. This study investigates the association between maternal PFASs exposure and infant growth during the first 12 months of life.
Study Conclusion: In this study, there were negative associations found for maternal PFHpA exposure and infant length and PFBS exposure and weight and BMI. Maternal PFDoA exposure was positively associated with weight and BMI. The adverse association of maternal PFHpA exposure and infant length was more pronounced in males.
Early pregnancy loss: Do Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances matter?
Study Purpose: PFAS can transfer across the blood-follicle barrier. However, it is unknown whether PFAS can affect human fertility. This study aims to analyze the associations of women's exposure to PFAs with pregnancy loss, the relevant processes of fertilization, zygote implantation, and embryo development.
Study Conclusion: Overall, this study concluded that most PFAS were not associated with early pregnancy loss at the current average exposure levels. As for the PFDA, there may exist susceptibility among different populations.
Association between maternal exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances and risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Study Purpose: This reviews and analyzes previous studies on the relationship of maternal PFAS exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Study Conclusion: It was found that maternal exposure to PFOS could be positively associated with preterm birth, while no statistically significant association have been found between PFASs exposure and miscarriage and stillbirth. Epidemiological evidence to date are insufficient to draw definitive conclusions on potential toxicities of PFASs with stronger statistical power.
Prenatal exposure to mixtures of persistent endocrine disrupting chemicals and postnatal body size in British girls
Study Purpose: This study investigates the association of prenatal exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals such as PFAS, PCBs, and OCPS as mixtures with postnatal body size in female offspring.
Study Conclusion: This study found an inverse association between prenatal exposure to PFAS, PCBs, and OCPs and longitudinal postnatal body size through age 19 months.
Associations of paternal and maternal per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances exposure with cord serum reproductive hormones, placental steroidogenic enzyme and birth weight
Study Purpose: Maternal PFAS exposure has been associated with placental function and fetal growth. In this study, they evaluate the associations of maternal or paternal PFAS levels with placental function and fetal growth measures.
Study Conclusion: Several maternal PFAS were associated with fetal steroid hormones and placental enzymes. Despite a correlation of PFAS level within the couples, no association was found for paternal PFAS exposure on these outcomes. The findings suggest the intrauterine PFAS exposure effect on fetal endocrine hormones and growth is unlikely to be confounded by exposure sources or familial factors shared within the couples.
The relationship between maternal perfluoroalkylated substances exposure and low birth weight of offspring: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Study Purpose: This article reviews past studies to assess the association between maternal PFAS exposure and low birth weight in offspring.
Study Conclusion: The present meta-analysis showed a significant positive association between maternal prenatal PFOS exposure and LBW of offspring, but no association between maternal PFOA exposure and LBW of offspring. Meanwhile, we observed regional factors might influence the occurrence of LBW
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances exposure during pregnancy and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Study Purpose: Exposure to PFAS during pregnancy has been suggested to be associated with adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes; however, the findings have been inconsistent. This study provides an overview of these associations.
Study Conclusion: Our findings indicated that PFOS, PFOA and PFNA exposure during pregnancy might be associated with increased preterm birth risk and that PFAS exposure might be associated with the risk of miscarriage and preeclampsia. Due to the limited evidence obtained for most associations, additional studies are required to confirm these findings.
Effects of gestational exposures to chemical mixtures on birth weight using Bayesian factor analysis in the Health Outcome and Measures of Environment (HOME) Study
Study Purpose: This study looks at the effects of gestational exposures to chemical mixtures (including PFAS) on infant birth weight.
Study Conclusion: This study used three different statistical approaches to examine the association between birth weight and prenatal exposures to seven types of environmental chemical mixtures. They found that PCBs and PFASs displayed strong associations with reduced birth weight.
Exploring associations between prenatal exposure to multiple endocrine disruptors and birth weight with exposure continuum mapping
Study Purpose: This study examines how prenatal exposure to environmental mixtures influence birth weight or other adverse outcomes
Study Conclusion: Findings from our study revealed a wide range of prenatal exposure scenarios and found that combinations exhibiting higher levels of PBDEs were associated with lower birth weight and combinations with higher levels of PCBs and PFAS were associated with increased birth weight. Our ECM approach provides a promising framework for supporting studies of other exposure mixtures.
Prenatal exposure to mixtures of persistent endocrine-disrupting chemicals and birth size in a population-based cohort of British girls
Study Purpose: This study investigates the association of prenatal exposure to mixtures of PFASs, PCBs, and pesticides with birth size among female offspring in the United Kingdom.
Study Conclusion: These results are consistent with the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to mixtures of endocrine-disrupting chemicals may affect birth size.
PFAS concentration during pregnancy in relation to cardiometabolic health and birth outcomes
Study Purpose: To examine the relationship between PFAS concentration during pregnancy in relation to cardiometabolic health and birth outcomes.
Study Conclusion: This study observed a positive association between PFAS exposure and serum-lipid concentrations. No association was observed between PFAS exposure and birth weight. PFNA was associated with preterm birth.
Associations between prenatal maternal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and birth outcomes among pregnant women in San Francisco
Study Purpose: To observe the associations between prenatal maternal exposure PFAS and PBDEs, and birth outcomes among pregnant women in San Francisco.
Study Conclusion: Most PFAS were not associated with adverse birth outcomes.
Persistent organic pollutants exposure in newborn dried blood spots and infant weight status: A case-control study of low-income Hispanic mother-infant pairs
Study Purpose: This study looks at the associations between PFAS and other pollutant exposure and birth weight and overweight status at 18 months old.
Study Conclusion: Some PFASs were associated with lower birth weight. No associations with infant overweight status at 18 months were observed.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in drinking water and birthweight in the US: A county-level study
Study Purpose: This study used public data to examine potential associations between PFAS in drinking water and birthweight at county levels.
Study Conclusion: Associations between PFAS and birthweight varied by the PFAS chemical in this study. Conclusions should be interpretation due to limitations of the 2 public datasets used.
Exposure to per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances in pregnant Brazilian women and its association with fetal growth
Study Purpose: In this study, concentrations of PFAS were determined in the second trimester of pregnancy in Brazilian women.
Study Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to assess whole blood concentrations of PFASs in pregnant Brazilian women. The results suggest ubiquitous exposure to PFOS and PFOA in pregnant women from Ribeirao Preto, an industrialized region in Brazil. PFOS and PFOA concentrations in pregnant women were positively associated with IUGR (p < 0.05). Further studies are needed to evaluate long-term effects of prenatal exposure of PFASs on developmental outcomes in children.
Associations of Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Substances With Thyroid Hormone Concentrations and Birth Size
Study Purpose: To determine the associations between maternal serum-PFAS concentrations and birth weight, birth length, and head circumference.
Study Conclusion: In this study, several PFASs were negatively associated with birth size and increased thyroid hormone levels; however, this did not explain lower birth weight among children exposed to PFAS.
Exposure to PFAS and small for gestational age newborns: A birth records study in Veneto Region (Italy)
Study Purpose: To examine the association between PFAS exposure and the risk of small for gestational age in a PFAS contaminated area.
Study Conclusion: The findings suggest that living in a contaminated area by PFAS may have an effect on fetal growth. Individual data on exposure is needed to confirm the direct association.
Prenatal exposure to 11 perfluoroalkyl substances and fetal growth: A large-scale, prospective birth cohort study
Study Purpose: To investigate whether prenatal maternal exposure to 11 PFAS is associated with fetal growth.
Study Conclusion: The study results suggest that prenatal, maternal exposure to PFAS with longer carbon chains may have effect on fetal growth.
Maternal serum levels of perfluoroalkyl substances in early pregnancy and offspring birth weight
Study Purpose: To examine associations between first-trimester exposure to PFAS and birth weight and examine differences between boys and girls.
Study Conclusion: This study observed associations between prenatal exposure for five different PFASs and birth weight, with more pronounced associations in girls than in boys.
Prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and infant growth and adiposity: the Healthy Start Study
Study Purpose: To test the hypothesis that faster growth in early infancy may be associated with maternal PFAS concentrations.
Study Conclusion: Although maternal PFAS concentrations are inversely associated with infant weight and adiposity at birth, rapid gain may occur in infancy, particularly in fat mass.
First-trimester maternal concentrations of polyfluoroalkyl substances and fetal growth throughout pregnancy
Study Purpose: To determine the association between first-trimester maternal concentrations of PFAS and fetal growth.
Study Conclusion: Study results did not suggest an overall association between prenatal PFASs and fetal growth.
Maternal serum concentrations of perfluoroalkyl substances and birth size in British boys
Study Purpose: To determine the association of prenatal maternal serum concentrations and birth size in boys.
Study Conclusion: Prenatal exposure to high levels of PFOS may be associated with reduced birth size in male infants.
Cumulative exposure to environmental pollutants during early pregnancy and reduced fetal growth: the Project Viva cohort
Study Purpose: To examine interactions between early pregnancy exposure to cigarette smoke, traffic pollution, and PFAS on birth weight for gestational age.
Study Conclusion: Prenatal exposure to PFOS was associated with lower fetal growth.
Prenatal Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Substances: Infant Birth Weight and Early Life Growth
Study Purpose: To determine if prenatal PFAS exposure was associated with birth weight, body composition and growth until 2 years of age.
Study Conclusion: The study observed inverse associations between prenatal serum PFAS concentrations and anthropometry until age 2 years. Prenatal serum PFAS concentrations were not associated with growth rate in the first 2 years of life.
Gestational exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals in relation to infant birth weight: a Bayesian analysis of the HOME Study
Study Purpose: To examine the association of gestational exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals, including PFAS.
Study Conclusion: Gestational exposure to PFAS had small associations with birth weight.
Prenatal exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances and birth outcomes in a Spanish birth cohort
Study Purpose: To estimate associations between prenatal PFAS exposure and birth outcomes, and the influence of kidney factors, in a birth cohort.
Study Conclusion: PFAS showed little association with birth outcomes. Higher PFHxS, PFOA, and PFNA were associated with reduced birth weight. The association between PFOS and low birth weight seems to be sex-specific.
Maternal Concentrations of Perfluoroalkyl Substances and Fetal Markers of Metabolic Function and Birth Weight
Study Purpose: To examine associations between first-trimester maternal plasma PFAS concentrations and birth weight.
Study Conclusion: All associations between maternal PFAS concentrations and cord blood adipocytokine concentrations were small.
Other
Mixtures of persistent organic pollutants are found in vital organs of late gestation human fetuses
Study Purpose: This study measured persistent organic pollutants, such as PFAS, in maternal serum, placenta, and fetal tissues in 20 pregnancies that ended in stillbirth.
Study Conclusion: This study quantified many POPs in fetal tissues. All studied chemicals were detected in fetal adipose tissue even in places when the chemical was not detected in the maternal serum and placenta.
A case-cohort study of perinatal exposure to potential endocrine disrupters and the risk of cryptorchidism in the Norwegian HUMIS study
Study Purpose: Exposure to PFAS and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during the critical period of testicular descent may increase the risk of cryptorchidism and male fertility. The objective of this study was to investigate 27 potential EDCs in breast milk and the risk of cryptorchidism.
Study Conclusion: Perinatal exposure to PCB-74, PCB-114, PCB-194, and B-HCH were associated with increased odds of congenital cryptorchidism.
Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and cardiometabolic indices during pregnancy: The HOME Study
Study Purpose: Toxicology studies have identified pregnancy as a time sensitive to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as PFAS, and cardiometabolic indices in women. No study has examined this in humans.
Study Conclusion: Overall, there were positive associations between PBDEs with glucose and cholesterol levels during pregnancy, while negative associations were found between some phthalates and cholesterol. No relationship was noted for BPA or PFAS with cardiometabolic indices during pregnancy across both models.
Associations of single and multiple per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) exposure with vitamin D biomarkers in African American women during pregnancy
Study Purpose: Vitamin D has been linked to various physiological function in pregnant women and their fetuses. This study aims to evaluate the associations of PFAs levels with vitamin D levels during pregnancy in a cohort of African American women in Atlanta.
Study Conclusion: This study suggests that exposure to PFAs might disturb vitamin D metabolism among pregnant African American women and that some of these effects might be changed by the sex of the fetus. More studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Association between maternal exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances and risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Study Purpose: This reviews and analyzes previous studies on the relationship of maternal PFAS exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Study Conclusion: It was found that maternal exposure to PFOS could be positively associated with preterm birth, while no statistically significant association have been found between PFASs exposure and miscarriage and stillbirth. Epidemiological evidence to date are insufficient to draw definitive conclusions on potential toxicities of PFASs with stronger statistical power.
Associations of single and multiple per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) exposure with vitamin D biomarkers in African American women during pregnancy
Study Purpose: Vitamin D has been linked to various physiological function in pregnant women and their fetuses. This study aims to evaluate the associations of PFAs levels with vitamin D levels during pregnancy in a cohort of African American women in Atlanta.
Study Conclusion: This study suggests that exposure to PFAs might disturb vitamin D metabolism among pregnant African American women and that some of these effects might be changed by the sex of the fetus. More studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Maternal exposure to perfluoroalkyl chemicals and anogenital distance in the offspring: a Faroese cohort study
Study Purpose: Exposure to PFASs has in some studies been associated with reduced anogenital distance in newborns, an indicator of prenatal anti-androgenic exposure. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between maternal PFAS exposure and offspring anogenital distance in a population with wide ranges of PFAS exposures.
Study Conclusion: In conclusion, we found that maternal PFAS exposure was significantly associated with a longer AGDs in boys. No significant associations were found among girls, suggesting sex-dimorphic effects of PFASs. Whether the observed association with longer ASD and PFAS influences the reproductive health of males is unknown and needs to be investigated further.
Prenatal exposures to mixtures of endocrine disrupting chemicals and children's weight trajectory up to age 5.5 in the SELMA study
Study Purpose: This study evaluates the effect of prenatal exposure to mixtures of endocrine disrupting chemical (such as PFASs) mixtures on birthweight and childhood weight trajectories.
Study Conclusion: Prenatal exposure to EDC mixtures was associated with lower birthweight and altered infant weight gain trajectories.
Exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances in early pregnancy and risk of sporadic first trimester miscarriage
Study Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate whether PFASs in early pregnancy are associated with unexplained, sporadic first trimester miscarriage.
Study Conclusion: There was an association between PFOA and miscarriage in this study. The study can only represent early placentation and clinical pregnancy loss during the second half of the first trimester.
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) or perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and DNA methylation in newborn dried blood spots in the Upstate KIDS cohort
Study Purpose: PFOA and PFOS may alter prenatal development, through modifying DNA. Prior studies on this subject have had few subjects and inconsistent results. This study examines relationships between PFOA and PFOS with DNA changes among nearly 600 infants.
Study Conclusion: There was limited evidence of an association between high concentrations of PFOA/PFOS and DNA changes in newborns in this study. Future studies are needed in populations with higher concentrations of PFOA/PFOS.
Prenatal Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, Umbilical Cord Blood DNA Methylation, and Cardio-Metabolic Indicators in Newborns: The Healthy Start Study
Study Purpose: This study looks at the associations between prenatal PFAS exposure and changes in DNA in umbilical cord blood.
Study Conclusion: DNA changes in umbilical cord blood were associated with maternal PFAS concentrations during pregnancy, which could affect offspring growth, metabolism, and immune function.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance mixtures and gestational weight gain among mothers in the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment study
Study Purpose: This study looks at associations between PFAS exposure and gestational weight gain.
Study Conclusion: Although there were consistent small increases in gestational weight gain with increasing PFOA, PFOS, and PFNA serum concentrations in this cohort, the associations were imprecise. Additional investigation of the association of PFAS with GWG in other cohorts would be informative and could consider pre-pregnancy BMI as a potential modifier.
Perfluoroalkyl substances exposure in early pregnancy and preterm birth in singleton pregnancies: a prospective cohort study
Study Purpose: To investigate the associations between prenatal PFAS exposure and preterm birth among singleton live births.
