Nonalcoholic fatty liver diseasecharacterized by a build-up of fat in the liveraffects about a quarter of the worlds population.
About a third of all U.S. adults may have the disease by 2030, according to a 2018 study.
Research so far shows that environmental factors play a key role.
Photo Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
Sometimes called forever chemicals, PFAS can persist in the environment and our bodies for thousands of years.
These findings contribute to the growing evidence that PFAS may play a role in development of multiple diseases.
This included 85 rodent studies and 24 epidemiological studies, primarily of people in the U.S. ## How Do PFAS and the Liver Interact?
PFAS act as endocrine disruptors, meaning they interfere with hormone systems.
Due to their chemical structure, they can also harm the body by mimicking fatty acids.
Scientists usually test for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by measuring alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in the blood.
What Can You Do About It?
Over a lifetime of using products that contain PFAS, the toxins may build up and cause long-term damage.
We think our homes, our workplaces, our environments are safe.
We dont think about all these unseen chemicals that were breathing in or drinking every day, Mutic said.
PFAS exposure is ubiquitous and almost everyone is exposed.
What This Means For You
PFAS are pervasive in our environment and can be difficult to avoid.
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Endocrine Society.PFAS chemicals: EDCs contaminating our water and food supply.
