Combined Effects of Multiple Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Exposure on Allostatic Load Using Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the combined effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on allostatic load, an index of chronic stress that is linked to several chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2014, this study examines the relationship between six PFAS variables (PFDE, PFNA, PFOS, PFUA, PFOA, and PFHS) and allostatic load using Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) analysis. The study also investigates the impact of individual and combined PFAS exposure on allostatic load using various exposure-response relationships, such as univariate, bivariate, or multivariate models. The analysis reveals that the combined exposure to PFDE, PFNA, and PFUA had the most significant positive trend with allostatic load when it was modeled as a binary variable, while PFDE, PFOS, and PFNA had the most significant positive trend with allostatic load when modeled as a continuous variable. These findings provide valuable insight into the consequences of cumulative exposure to multiple PFAS on allostatic load, which can help public health practitioners identify the dangers associated with potential combined exposure to select PFAS of interest. In summary, this study highlights the critical role of PFAS exposure in chronic stress-related diseases and emphasizes the need for effective strategies to minimize exposure to these chemicals to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. It underscores the importance of considering the combined effects of PFAS when assessing their impact on human health and offers valuable information for policymakers and regulators to develop strategies to protect public health.

Exploring the Potential Link between PFAS Exposure and Endometrial Cancer: A Review of Environmental and Sociodemographic Factors

“…Due to the health burden caused by PFAS exposure, stress has been known to affect the body’s hormonal balance, immune function, and inflammation levels, all of which could potentially play a role in cancer development. For example, research has found a relationship between PFAS exposure and allostatic load, an index of chronic stress [ 9 , 10 , 11 ]. This indicates that the biological response to stress increases when exposed to PFAS.…”

“…The concept of allostatic load, which represents the cumulative burden of chronic stress and life events, is particularly relevant here. It is hypothesized that individuals with higher allostatic load may exhibit increased sensitivity to the harmful effects of PFAS, thereby elevating their risk for endometrial cancer [ 9 , 10 , 11 ].…”

Association of Combined PFOA, PFOS, Metals and Allostatic Load on Hepatic Disease Risk

“…A variety of PFAS, including PFOS and PFOA, and metals such as Pb, Cd, and Hg were investigated in this study. The study also looked at the allostatic load index using a range of clinical and bio-markers, such as albumin, creatinine clearance, BMI, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, CRP, and hemoglobin A1C [ 33 ].…”

“…For the NHANES, a mobile exam center (MEC) gathered blood samples for laboratory processing, including evaluations for exposure to environmental agents such as PFAS and metals. Under carefully monitored circumstances, these samples were prepared, kept, and sent to laboratories around the nation [ 33 ].…”