Waterproof Fabric Chemicals May Lead To Elevated Cholesterol In Children.

A new US study finds that it is used in production.

These chemicals, called perfluoroalkyl acids, include perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), which are used to produce fluoropolymer, which provides non stick heat resistance and breathable and waterproof fabrics and upholstery products.

These chemicals can enter the body through drinking water, dust, food packaging, breast milk, umbilical cord blood, microwave popcorn, air and work contact.

PFOA and PFOS may also exist in commercial foods.

Prior to the PFOA pollution of the Ohio valley due to the central water source explosion, a study of more than 12000 children in the region found that the PFOA concentration of these children's blood was relatively high, and the children with high PFOA content in the blood had higher total cholesterol, and the low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), commonly known as "bad" cholesterol, was also higher.

Another animal research report pointed out that perfluoroalkane can affect the liver, and its potential impact on human health, including the change of cholesterol index.

The study, published in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, points out that exposure to these chemicals is associated with the high cholesterol index and suggests further research is necessary.