Men in Their 50s May Feel Older Because of “Forever Chemicals”

PFAS, the “Forever Chemicals,” May Accelerate Men’s Biological Aging

Perfluoroalkyl and poly‑fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) linger in the body for years, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” A new study examined whether these compounds could make men feel older than their calendar age.

Key Findings

Age‑specific effects: The strongest link between blood PFAS levels and a faster biological aging clock appeared in men aged 50‑65.
Weaker signals elsewhere: In younger men and those over 70, the association was weaker or statistically unclear.
Women’s response: Similar patterns were observed in women, but the effects were smaller and less consistent.

Methodology

Data came from a large national health survey launched in 1999.
Researchers measured eleven different PFAS chemicals in participants’ blood and examined DNA for epigenetic markers—tiny changes that signal aging speed.
These data were fed into “epigenetic clocks” to estimate biological age from DNA patterns.

Sources of PFAS

Everyday items such as non‑stick pans, waterproof jackets, and some food packaging contain PFAS.
About 98 % of Americans have detectable levels in their blood.

Possible Mechanisms

Scientists suspect PFAS disrupt the endocrine system, which controls hormones like testosterone. Lower testosterone and other hormonal shifts may explain accelerated aging in men during their fifties when exposed to PFAS.

Legacy vs. New Variants

While legacy chemicals like PFOS and PFOA have been targeted for elimination, newer variants—perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorooctanesulfonamide (PFOSA)—may also drive faster aging in men.
The entire PFAS family, not just the well‑known types, could have harmful biological effects.

Responses from Stakeholders

Some regulators and industry reps criticize the study for using older data and a small sample, questioning causality.
Others acknowledge that reducing exposure—through water filters or avoiding certain products—is feasible, yet call for broader governmental and industrial action to lower community‑wide PFAS levels.

Bottom Line

This study adds evidence that long‑term PFAS exposure might push men into an older biological state earlier than expected. It underscores how everyday chemicals can quietly influence our health over time.

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