Exposure of Perfluorinated Chemicals through Lactation
Author Information
Author(s): Kärrman Anna, Ericson Ingrid, van Bavel Bert, Darnerud Per Ola, Aune Marie, Glynn Anders, Lignell Sanna, Lindström Gunilla
Primary Institution: Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
Hypothesis
What are the levels of perfluorinated chemicals in human milk compared to maternal serum and how have these levels changed over time in Sweden?
Conclusion
Lactation is a significant source of exposure to perfluorinated chemicals for infants, with approximately 200 ng of PFCs transferred daily.
Supporting Evidence
- Eight perfluorinated chemicals were detected in serum samples.
- PFOS and PFHxS were found in all milk samples.
- The total PFC concentration in maternal serum was 32 ng/mL.
- The corresponding milk concentration was 0.34 ng/mL.
- There was a strong association between serum and milk concentrations for PFOS and PFHxS.
Takeaway
Moms pass some chemicals to their babies through breast milk, and this study found that babies can get about 200 nanograms of these chemicals each day.
Methodology
Matched individual milk and serum samples from 12 primiparous women were analyzed, along with composite milk samples from 25–90 women per year from 1996 to 2004.
Limitations
The study's findings are based on a limited number of samples and may not represent broader populations.
Participant Demographics
Primiparous women from four regions in Sweden.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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