WIREDGOV

Exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which is found in some household products, has been linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and peripheral arterial disease.

Researchers in Chicago found an association between higher levels of PFOA and incidence of cardiovascular disease. The chemical, used in products such as polishes, paper and food packaging, is detectable in the blood of more than 98 percent of the US population.

One limitation to the study is that researchers relied on self-reported data about people’s diagnosis with CVD.

Our Medical Director, Professor Peter Weissberg, said:  “This observational study showed that people with cardiovascular disease tend to have high levels of PFOA in their blood.  This does not mean PFOA causes heart disease.

“We would need to see further research to properly establish whether this is a chance association or if PFOA does carry risks.

“In the meantime, the best way to avoid heart disease is to quit smoking, exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet. The type of food you eat will have a much greater influence on your heart health than the packaging it comes in.”

This study was published online in the Archives of Internal Medicine.