Women with higher levels of “persistent chemicals” or “persistent chemicals” (PFAS) in their blood are 40% less likely to get pregnant within a year, according to the first study of the effects of these substances on female fertility.

The study was conducted in Singapore, where the level of pollution is lower, but scientists found a strong correlation with a decrease in birth rates, reports The Guardian.

More than 1,000 women of childbearing age who were trying to conceive participated in the study. Women whose blood levels of these substances were a quarter higher than average were 40% less likely to get pregnant within a year. They were also 34% less likely to have a live birth within 12 months.

What are PFAS or Forever Chemicals

According to the European Chemicals Agency, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS, also known as forever chemicals or persistent chemicals) are an extended family of thousands of synthetic chemicals that are widely used in society and in the environment.

They all contain carbon-fluorine bonds, one of the strongest chemical bonds in organic chemistry. This means that it is resistant to degradation both during use and in the environment. In addition, most PFAS are easily transported into the environment over long distances, far from the source of their release.

PFAS contamination of groundwater, surface water and soil was frequently observed. Cleanup of contaminated sites is technically difficult and expensive. If they continue to be released, they will accumulate in the environment, drinking water and food, the quoted source said.

Where are the permanent chemicals?

According to the Ministry of the Environment, persistent chemicals are all around us, whether we are indoors or outdoors.

According to the Ministry of the Environment, here’s where we find the eternal chemicals:

CLOTHES:

• PFAS chemicals are found mainly in water-repellent or stain-resistant clothing, such as raincoats. To protect yourself from these chemicals, check the labels of water repellents, such as Teflon, made before 2015.

PACKAGING:

• Sources of packaging contamination include greaseproof paper, fast food containers/wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, pizza boxes, and candy wrappers. Don’t think you’re avoiding the impact by buying compostable products! Despite manufacturers’ claims, many of these products have been found to contain PFAS compounds.

AT SCHOOL:

• it has been proven that these substances are also in the food packaging in which lunches are stored, as well as in some sports fields with artificial grass.

AT WORK:

• occupational exposure can be identified primarily in industries related to chrome plating and electronics, but PFAS chemicals are also found in mining, hydraulic fracturing, and oil production operations. Because PFAS chemicals are found in most electronic components, wires and cables, there may be a risk of exposure, particularly in offices.

ORGANISMS VII:

• Living organisms contaminated with PFAS include fish and animals where these chemicals have had the ability to accumulate and persist for long periods of time.

AIR:

• new research shows the presence of PFAS chemicals in indoor air, including classrooms, offices and apartments.

SOIL:

• accidental ingestion of contaminated soil or inhalation of dust saturated with these chemicals may increase the risk of exposure.

GROUND AND DRINKING WATER:

• military bases and airports are the main source of PFAS exposure through the use of firefighting foam.