A new study published in the Environmental Science & Technology journal has revealed that breastfeeding may expose babies to a widely used class of industrial chemicals linked with cancer and interference with immune function.
According to the study co-authored by experts from Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Perfluorinated alkylate substances, or PFASs – a widely used class of industrial chemicals linked with cancer and interference with immune function – appears to build up in infants by 20 to 30% for each month they’re breastfed.
Philippe Grandjean, adjunct professor of environmental health at Harvard Chan School said “We knew that small amounts of PFAS can occur in breast milk, but our serial blood analyses now show a buildup in the infants, the longer they are breastfed.”
PFASs are used to make products resistant to water, grease, and stains. They’ve been in use for more than 60 years in products such as stain-proof textiles, waterproof clothing, some food packaging, paints, and lubricants.
They are linked with reproductive toxicity, endocrine disruption, and immune system dysfunction.