Study Links 'Forever Chemicals' to Increased Risk of Multiple Sclerosis

A fresh investigation has revealed a potential connection between exposure to so-called “forever chemicals” and the development of multiple sclerosis, a debilitating, lifelong illness. These persistent synthetic compounds, found in a wide array of everyday products ranging from non-stick cookware to waterproof clothing and even dental floss, have been under increasing scrutiny for their potential health impacts.

The new research, published in *Environment International*, indicates that individuals with significant exposure to two major environmental toxins—perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)—demonstrate a higher likelihood of receiving a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Kim Kultima, who spearheaded the Sweden-based study, stated in a press release that several individual substances, including PFOS and hydroxylated PCBs (byproducts of PCB breakdown within the body), correlated with increased odds of an MS diagnosis. Kultima further noted that individuals exhibiting the highest concentrations of PFOS and PCBs faced approximately twice the risk of an MS diagnosis compared to those with the lowest concentrations.

Multiple sclerosis, according to the Mayo Clinic, is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by the breakdown of the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers. This degradation disrupts communication between the brain and body, leading to symptoms such as numbness, weakness, impaired mobility, vision disturbances, and can eventually result in permanent nerve damage.

Involving 900 newly diagnosed MS patients, researchers compared blood samples from these individuals with those of a control group without MS. The team, led by Kultima, assessed toxin levels within each group's blood samples. Using statistical modeling, the scientists examined the correlation between chemical exposure and the likelihood of developing MS. Since people are frequently exposed to mixtures of chemicals concurrently, the study also investigated the effects of exposure to multiple toxins.

Aina Vaivade, the study's lead author, explained that increases in total chemical exposure were linked to higher odds of MS, even after accounting for established lifestyle and genetic risk factors.

Furthermore, the study explored the interplay between genetics, chemical exposure, and MS risk. Researchers discovered that individuals carrying a particular gene variant typically associated with reduced MS risk exhibited unexpectedly increased odds of diagnosis when exposed to higher levels of PFOS. Kultima suggested that these findings point to a complex interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental factors in the development of MS.

Previous research has linked “forever chemicals,” known for their persistence in the body, to a range of health problems including cancer, fetal complications, liver and kidney ailments, thyroid issues, fertility problems, and autoimmune disorders.

The authors of this recent study emphasize the need for further research into the effects of combined exposure to multiple “forever chemicals.” Vaivade noted the importance of considering chemical mixtures, rather than individual substances, when assessing the impact of PFAS and other chemicals on human health, as people are commonly exposed to several substances simultaneously.

Even though the EPA banned PCBs in the U.S. back in 1979, these chemicals persist in the environment. Meanwhile, PFAS continue to be utilized in numerous products, from fast food packaging to smartwatch straps. Kultima believes understanding the interactions between environmental contaminants and hereditary factors is crucial, as it could yield valuable insights into the origins of MS and potentially other diseases.