Heavy seafood diets tied to ‘forever chemicals:’ new study

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NEW YORK, April 14: A recent study has revealed that individuals who regularly consume seafood may face an increased risk of exposure to harmful “forever chemicals,” according to findings published in Exposure and Health on Friday.

The research, conducted at Dartmouth College’s Geisel School of Medicine, focused on seafood obtained from a coastal market in New Hampshire. Of the various species analyzed, shrimp and lobster exhibited the highest levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) compounds, which are linked to various cancers and have contaminated water sources across the nation.

While PFAS compounds are released into the environment through industrial discharge, firefighting foam, and household products, seafood has received less scrutiny compared to freshwater fish in previous studies. Megan Romano, the corresponding author and an associate professor of epidemiology, emphasized the importance of assessing PFAS levels in marine species, considering seafood consumption habits, particularly in regions like New England, known for high seafood consumption.

The study involved analyzing 26 different types of PFAS compounds in commonly consumed marine species such as cod, haddock, salmon, scallops, shrimp, and tuna. Shrimp and lobster consistently exhibited elevated PFAS levels compared to other seafood varieties.

Using data from a statewide survey on dietary habits in New Hampshire, the researchers evaluated the risk of exposure to specific PFAS compounds among seafood consumers. They found that while certain PFAS compounds in shrimp and lobster posed potential risks for high consumers, other types of seafood had lower concentrations of these chemicals.

The study also highlighted demographic variations in seafood consumption patterns, with coastal residents and individuals with lower incomes more likely to consume seafood regularly. Despite the risks associated with PFAS exposure, Romano emphasized the nutritional benefits of seafood while urging consumers, especially vulnerable populations like pregnant individuals and children, to consider the risk-benefit trade-off when making dietary choices.

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