A new study warns that a chemical present in common household products and clothing may negatively affect facial development in unborn babies.
It is about perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), part of the group of so-called "persistent chemicals" (PFAS), which are highly resistant to decomposition and can persist for years in the environment and in the human body.
According to the study, even very small amounts of PFDA can increase the risk of abnormalities such as smaller eyes, jaw problems and other facial deformities by about 10%.
The research was conducted by scientists at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, who analyzed 139 different PFAS chemicals. They identified PFDA as the most harmful to fetal facial development.
According to experts, this chemical affects the way the body controls retinoic acid (vitamin A), an essential element for the formation of the face, eyes and nervous system during pregnancy. When levels of this acid get out of control, craniofacial abnormalities can be caused.
The most critical period is between the fourth and tenth weeks of pregnancy, when the main facial features are formed. During this time, the fetus is completely dependent on the mother's body to regulate these processes, making chemical interference particularly dangerous.
PFDA and similar substances are found in many everyday products, including non-stick cookware, plastic food packaging, water and stain resistant clothing, carpets, cosmetics and some hygiene products. They can accumulate in dust and enter the body through breathing or eating.
Experts advise several measures to reduce exposure, such as consuming fresh foods instead of processed ones, avoiding plastic packaging, filtering tap water, and avoiding heating food in plastic containers.
However, the researchers emphasize that further research is needed to fully confirm the effects in humans. They hope that these findings will help identify the most dangerous chemicals and create safer alternatives for everyday use. /GazetaExpress/
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