A federal inquiry in Australia is currently examining the regulation and management of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, often referred to as 'forever chemicals' due to their persistence in the environment and in human bodies.

This week, leading scientists provided testimony emphasizing significant knowledge gaps regarding the health impacts of these chemicals, which are prevalent across various industries and consumer products.

PFAS are synthetic compounds utilized for their heat, stain, grease, and water-resistant properties, predominantly found in items such as makeup, non-stick cookware, and food packaging.

Given their resistance to degradation, PFAS accumulate in both the environment and the human body.

Professor Peter Sly from the Queensland Children's Medical Research Institute stated that virtually every person in Australia has some level of PFAS in their system, with the key concern being the degree of exposure.

Recent data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates that over 85 percent of the general population has detectable levels of PFAS in their blood, with three types specifically identified among the sampled individuals.

While researchers are working to understand over 40 distinct types of PFAS, it is estimated there are more than 15,000 compounds within this chemical class.

Efforts to understand and mitigate PFAS levels have included a study involving 285 firefighters, who historically faced higher exposure through firefighting foams.

Conducted in 2022, this study explored the impact of regular blood and plasma donations on PFAS levels.

Results indicated that those donating blood every 12 weeks experienced a 10 percent reduction in PFAS, whereas plasma donations every six weeks resulted in a 30 percent decrease.

However, the study’s authors highlight the need for further research to understand the health implications of these reductions.

Health experts also recognize that the relationship between PFAS exposure and health outcomes remains complex, with ongoing inquiries into long-term effects of low-level exposure, health impacts on individuals with high exposure, and general sources of household exposure.

Martyn Kirk, a professor of epidemiology at the Australian National University, pointed out that while some observational studies suggest links between PFAS and specific health conditions, results are often inconsistent.

He advocates for longitudinal studies that can provide more comprehensive data over time and across different demographics.

Challenges in collecting extensive data stem from the high costs associated with sampling and analysis.

To facilitate better research, Professor Sly proposed a biomonitoring program that would aggregate leftover hospital blood samples, allowing for a broader understanding of PFAS levels across the population without compromising individual identities.

Despite efforts to phase out PFAS usage since the late 1990s, concerns persist, particularly in communities near military installations.

For instance, there are rising anxieties within the Aboriginal community of Wreck Bay, where residents suspect a 'cancer cluster' linked to PFAS contamination attributed to Department of Defence activities.

Experts emphasize the importance of enhancing communication with affected communities and providing clear information to support effective policy development regarding PFAS management in Australia.