September 03, 2012
Chemical exposure linked to cardiovascular disease
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.
The type of food you eat will have a much greater influence on your heart health than the packaging it comes in
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.