Small Changes to Reduce “Forever Chemicals”

Today, nearly 1 million people in the United States are living with multiple sclerosis (MS), and that number has increased over the past five years. MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, disrupting communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms can range from numbness and fatigue to vision problems, muscle weakness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. 

While the exact cause of MS remains unknown, researchers believe it develops from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. A recent study found that people with higher levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in their bloodstream had a significantly greater risk of developing multiple sclerosis- 53% overall and 56% among women. You may have heard PFAS by their more common name, “forever chemicals.” 

So, what are “forever chemicals”? They are a large group of man-made chemicals that have been used in consumer and industrial products since the 1940s for their ability to resist water, grease, stains, and heat. But these chemicals break down extremely slowly in the environment and can remain in the human body for years. They have been detected in drinking water, soil, wildlife, food, and the blood of most people in the U.S. 

Researchers have linked PFAS exposure to several health concerns, including certain cancers, elevated cholesterol, thyroid disease, liver damage, reduced immune response, pregnancy complications and kidney disease, Still, they are found in many everyday household products:

Non-Stick Cookware. PFAS are commonly used in products with non-stick coatings. Think pots and pans, bakeware, air fryers, rice and slow cookers, and griddles. Experts say that the safer alternatives are to use cast iron, stainless steel, enameled cookware, or ceramic cookware specifically labeled PFAS-free.

Food Packaging. PFAS can be found in fast-food and common grease-resistant food packaging including microwave popcorn bags, fast-food wrappers, pizza boxes, french fry cartons, candy wrappers, and grease-resident paper plates. Consider using glass and metal containers, uncoated paper products, or packaging labeled PFAS-free.

Clothing, Textiles and Outdoor Gear. Many products marketed as waterproof, stain-resistant, or water-repellent may contain PFAS. This could be rain jackets, anything labeled waterproof, water-resistant work or school uniforms, carpets, mattress covers, upholstered furniture, umbrellas, and backpacks.

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products. PFAS may be used to make products longer lasting or water resistant in everyday cosmetic and personal care products, like foundation, concealer, CC cream, waterproof mascara, eyeliner, powders and setting sprays, plus sunscreen, shaving cream, anti-aging creams, nail polish and hair styling products. It’s important to read ingredient labels and choose products marketed as PFAS-free to help reduce exposure.

Cleaning Products and Household Chemicals. Some household products that may contain PFAS include stain removers, carpet and upholstery cleaners, floor polish and sealers, mold-resistant sprays and fabric protectors. Look for simple soap and detergents, vinegar-based cleaners, baking soda, or products labeled PFAS-free.

Drinking Water. In some communities right here in Louisiana, PFAS contamination has been detected in public and private water supplies due to industrial pollution, military sites, and airports. 

So why does this matter? Although the latest research does not prove that PFAS directly cause multiple sclerosis, it strengthens the growing body of evidence suggesting that long-term exposure to these chemicals may contribute to immune system dysfunction and autoimmune diseases. And because women are already diagnosed with MS approximately three times more than men, identifying environmental factors that may further increase the risk is important. 

Public concern about PFAS has grown as scientists continue to uncover potential health risks associated with long-term exposure. At the same time, discussions surrounding federal regulation continue to evolve. 

While it's nearly impossible to eliminate PFAS exposure completely, you can reduce your risk by:

• Replacing damaged non-stick cookware with cast iron, stainless steel, or PFAS-free ceramic options.
• Choosing fresh or frozen foods over heavily packaged convenience foods.
• Using reusable glass or stainless-steel food storage containers.
• Looking for cosmetics and personal care products labeled PFAS-free.
• Using simple household cleaners instead of stain-resistant or waterproofing sprays when possible.
• Stay informed about your community's drinking water quality and consider certified water filtration if PFAS contamination is present.