If you’ve wondered why some people who drink alcohol develop serious liver problems while others don’t, a study from University of Louisville researchers published in Toxicological Sciences suggests the answer might be hidden in everyday sources such as drinking water, food packaging or even non-stick cookware.
Scientists at U of L, along with colleagues from Boston University and the University of Massachusetts Lowell, have identified perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) as a potential environmental factor that worsens alcohol-associated liver disease.
PFOS is a man-made chemical belonging to the group known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not readily break down in the environment or the human body. These substances have been used for decades in products such as non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothing, fast-food packaging, stain-resistant carpets and upholstery, and firefighting foams. Their extensive use has led to widespread contamination in the environment. Recent data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey show that PFAS can be detected in approximately 95 percent of Americans, sparking increasing concern about their long-term health effects.
Meanwhile, alcohol consumption remains a significant global health issue. According to the World Health Organization, alcohol contributes to nearly three million worldwide deaths each year, and its consumption continues to rise globally. In the U.S. alone, excessive alcohol use is responsible for approximately 95,000 deaths annually, making it one of the leading causes of preventable death and a major contributor to liver disease.
“Given the increasing prevalence of alcohol consumption and the widespread presence of PFAS in the environment, many individuals who drink alcohol may be inevitably exposed to these persistent pollutants,” said Matthew Cave, UofL professor of medicine and publication co-author. “This makes it critically important to study how combined exposures to alcohol and environmental chemicals like PFOS might influence liver health.”
Although more studies are needed, people can take practical steps now to limit their exposure to PFAS. These include:
- Choose stainless steel or cast-iron cookware instead of non-stick pans
- Use water filters, especially in areas near industrial zones
- Avoid stain-resistant treatments on furniture and carpets
- Reduce consumption of packaged fast foods and microwave popcorn.
- Select household products with PFAS-free labels
Given that liver disease affects millions of Americans and is becoming more prevalent worldwide, the findings of this research support growing calls for stronger regulation and oversight of persistent chemical contaminants.
By Tom Latek, Kentucky Today
