Introduction
A new study suggests that exposure to PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” may be associated with faster biological aging in men aged 50 to 65. Researchers found the strongest links between PFAS levels and accelerated epigenetic aging in this group, while effects appeared smaller and less consistent in women. The findings add to concern about widespread PFAS exposure and renew calls for both practical exposure reduction and stronger regulatory action.
What PFAS Are and Why They Matter
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances are synthetic chemicals used since the 1950s to make products nonstick, oil- and water-repellent, and resistant to heat. They are called “forever chemicals” because they break down extremely slowly and can accumulate in people and the environment. PFAS have been linked in prior research to health issues including certain cancers, fertility problems, high cholesterol, hormone disruption, liver damage, obesity, and thyroid disease. Exposure is widespread, with estimates suggesting PFAS are present in the blood of about 98% of Americans.
How the Study Measured Biological Aging
The study analyzed public data from 326 older adults who participated in the 1999 to 2000 cycle of the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Researchers examined blood samples for 11 PFAS compounds and assessed the DNA methylome, an epigenetic marker that helps regulate gene expression. They then used a set of “epigenetic clocks” to estimate biological aging in blood and other tissues, allowing comparisons between measured biological age and chronological age.
Stronger Associations in Men Aged 50 to 65
The strongest PFAS-related aging signals appeared in men between 50 and 65. In younger men and those over 65, the associations were weaker and often not statistically significant. Women showed some associations, but they were generally smaller and less consistent than those seen in middle-aged men. One explanation discussed is that PFAS can disrupt the endocrine system, and biological differences, including hormonal patterns, may contribute to differing effects by sex.
Researchers and external experts noted that PFAS accumulation in men may be linked with lower testosterone and potential reproductive impacts, while earlier studies suggest women can eliminate certain PFAS faster due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menstrual blood loss. After menopause, the difference in PFAS accumulation between women and men may narrow, which could influence age-related patterns.
PFNA and PFOSA Stand Out Among Less-Studied PFAS
The study also pointed to potential significance for less-discussed PFAS compounds, including perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorooctanesulfonamide (PFOSA). Higher concentrations of PFNA and PFOSA were described as strong predictors of faster epigenetic aging in men aged 50 to 64, but not in women. This raises concerns that replacement or less-studied PFAS may carry biological risks similar to more widely regulated legacy compounds.
Limits, Debate, and What People Can Do
Researchers emphasized that the results show associations, not proof that PFAS cause faster aging. Independent commentary also cautioned against interpreting the findings as cause and effect, describing them as building blocks that may support biological plausibility. Industry representatives argued the study was exploratory, involved a relatively small sample, and relied on older data.
Even with these limitations, the study supports a practical message: complete avoidance is unrealistic, but reducing exposure where feasible may be reasonable. Examples include using certified water filters, following local water advisories, and minimizing contact with stain- or grease-resistant materials. The authors also stressed that meaningful risk reduction at scale depends on regulatory action and environmental cleanup, since many exposures are community-level rather than purely individual choices.
Conclusion
The study adds evidence that PFAS exposure may be linked to accelerated epigenetic aging, with the strongest signal appearing in men aged 50 to 65. While the findings do not establish causation, they highlight the importance of continued research into both legacy and less-studied PFAS compounds. The broader implication is that personal exposure-reduction steps can help at the margin, but larger risk reduction is likely to require sustained regulation and remediation of contaminated environments.