'Forever chemicals’ found in domesticated animals' blood in US

By Aleyna Cil

ANKARA (AA) - Nearly indestructible “forever chemicals” have shown up in blood samples taken from dogs and horses at elevated levels, according to a new US university study.

Researchers at North Carolina State University examined perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) levels in the blood of 31 dogs and 32 horses, following the owners' concerns about their animals' health, according to a report by The Hill.

The scientists discovered 12 out of the 20 PFAS types and 20 out of the 33 PFAS compounds detected in a riverbed in the state, indicating the presence of PFAS in the blood of all tested animals.

Also, it was found that not only animals consuming groundwater but also those consuming bottled water had PFAS in their blood, according to the latest research.

- Liver and kidney problems

The tested animals showed liver and kidney problems associated with PFAS compounds.

The researchers emphasized the significance of tracing the presence of PFAS in homes based on the results of the study.

Scott Belcher, one of the research authors, expressed concerns about the chemicals observed in household pets, as they can also affect children.

"Even in animals that do not consume groundwater, finding PFAS compounds in their blood points to other sources of contamination such as dust and food inside homes,” he added.

The results of the study were published in the journal, Environmental Science and Technology.

- PFAS compound detected in riverbed

Officials in the state had detected 33 PFAS compounds during their examinations of the Cape Fear River's riverbed in the area.

During the general veterinary health screening, the blood samples of animals were tested for various types of PFAS that contaminated the local water.

In humans, PFAS compounds have been linked to kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid issues, and other diseases.

PFAS compounds, which have thousands of varieties, can be found in industrial waste, certain fire extinguishing foams, and various household items.

* Writing by Esra Tekin in Istanbul