Are men at higher risk from toxins in your water? What new research reveals about PFAS dangers
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If you’ve been following the news about “forever chemicals” in our water, you’re not alone.
At The GrayVine, we know that clean, safe drinking water is a top concern—especially for those who’ve seen the world change and want to protect our health and our families.
But did you know that men may be at a higher risk than women when it comes to retaining these dangerous chemicals in their bodies? Let’s dive into the latest research, what it means for you, and how you can take action.
What Are PFAS—and Why Should You Care?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of thousands of man-made chemicals that have been used since the 1940s in products designed to resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water.
Think nonstick pans, water-repellent jackets, fast-food wrappers, and even some firefighting foams.
Because they don’t break down easily, PFAS are often called “forever chemicals.” They can linger in the environment—and in our bodies—for years.
Why does this matter? High levels of PFAS exposure have been linked to a range of health problems, including:
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Changes in liver enzymes
- Decreased vaccine response in children
- Higher risk of high blood pressure or preeclampsia in pregnant women
- Lower birth weights
- Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer
The Latest Study: Men vs. Women and PFAS Retention
A new study from Michigan State University has shed light on how our bodies handle PFAS exposure—and the results are eye-opening.
Also read: New study reveals surprising truth about tap versus bottled water
Researchers looked at people living in southwestern Michigan, where a paper mill contaminated local drinking water with PFAS.
They divided participants into two groups: those with high exposure (drinking city water) and those with lower exposure (using private wells).
Here’s what they found:
- In the low-exposure group, men had significantly higher levels of certain PFAS chemicals in their blood than women.
- Women of childbearing age tended to eliminate PFAS from their bodies more efficiently than men.
- This difference is likely due to biological factors—women can excrete PFAS through menstruation, childbirth, and breastfeeding.
- However, in the high-exposure group, these natural elimination methods weren’t enough to make a difference. Both men and women had elevated PFAS levels, even years after the contamination was discovered and addressed.
Source: CBS News / Youtube.
Why Are Men More Vulnerable?
The study’s lead author, Dr. Courtney Carignan, explained that hormones and biological processes play a role.
While women have more ways to rid their bodies of PFAS, men tend to retain these chemicals longer, especially when exposure is ongoing but not extremely high. This means that, over time, men may be at greater risk for the health effects associated with PFAS.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re a man—or have men in your family—this research is a wake-up call. But it’s important for everyone to be aware, regardless of gender. PFAS exposure is a community issue, and the health risks can affect us all.
Here’s what you can do:
1. Know Your Water Source: If you live in an area with known PFAS contamination, consider having your water tested. Many local health departments offer resources or can direct you to certified labs.
Also read: Think your fish is healthy? A shocking new risk might change your mind!
2. Filter Your Water: Not all filters remove PFAS, but some activated carbon and reverse osmosis systems are effective. Check for filters certified to remove PFAS.
3. Stay Informed: The EPA and your state’s environmental agency regularly update information about PFAS in drinking water. Sign up for alerts or check their websites.
4. Limit Exposure from Other Sources: PFAS aren’t just in water. They’re in some nonstick cookware, stain-resistant carpets, and even some cosmetics. When possible, choose alternatives and check product labels.
5. Advocate for Change: Many communities are pushing for stricter regulations and cleanup efforts. Your voice matters—contact your local representatives and support organizations working to reduce PFAS pollution.
Source: KenDBerryMD / Youtube.
What’s Next in PFAS Research?
The Michigan State team isn’t stopping here. They’re now studying how PFAS exposure affects local and homegrown food, with results expected in the next year.
This is especially important for those who garden or raise their own produce—another reason to stay tuned.
Read next: New study reveals millions exposed to toxic chemicals in drinking water
Have you or someone you know been affected by water contamination? Are you concerned about PFAS in your area? Do you have tips for reducing exposure or questions about water safety? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below!
At The GrayVine, we know that clean, safe drinking water is a top concern—especially for those who’ve seen the world change and want to protect our health and our families.
But did you know that men may be at a higher risk than women when it comes to retaining these dangerous chemicals in their bodies? Let’s dive into the latest research, what it means for you, and how you can take action.
What Are PFAS—and Why Should You Care?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of thousands of man-made chemicals that have been used since the 1940s in products designed to resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water.
Think nonstick pans, water-repellent jackets, fast-food wrappers, and even some firefighting foams.
Because they don’t break down easily, PFAS are often called “forever chemicals.” They can linger in the environment—and in our bodies—for years.
A new study has found that men may be more vulnerable than women to retaining PFAS, or “forever chemicals”, in their blood after low-level exposure from contaminated water. Image source: CBS News / Youtube.
Why does this matter? High levels of PFAS exposure have been linked to a range of health problems, including:
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Changes in liver enzymes
- Decreased vaccine response in children
- Higher risk of high blood pressure or preeclampsia in pregnant women
- Lower birth weights
- Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer
The Latest Study: Men vs. Women and PFAS Retention
A new study from Michigan State University has shed light on how our bodies handle PFAS exposure—and the results are eye-opening.
Also read: New study reveals surprising truth about tap versus bottled water
Researchers looked at people living in southwestern Michigan, where a paper mill contaminated local drinking water with PFAS.
They divided participants into two groups: those with high exposure (drinking city water) and those with lower exposure (using private wells).
Here’s what they found:
- In the low-exposure group, men had significantly higher levels of certain PFAS chemicals in their blood than women.
- Women of childbearing age tended to eliminate PFAS from their bodies more efficiently than men.
- This difference is likely due to biological factors—women can excrete PFAS through menstruation, childbirth, and breastfeeding.
- However, in the high-exposure group, these natural elimination methods weren’t enough to make a difference. Both men and women had elevated PFAS levels, even years after the contamination was discovered and addressed.
Source: CBS News / Youtube.
Why Are Men More Vulnerable?
The study’s lead author, Dr. Courtney Carignan, explained that hormones and biological processes play a role.
While women have more ways to rid their bodies of PFAS, men tend to retain these chemicals longer, especially when exposure is ongoing but not extremely high. This means that, over time, men may be at greater risk for the health effects associated with PFAS.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re a man—or have men in your family—this research is a wake-up call. But it’s important for everyone to be aware, regardless of gender. PFAS exposure is a community issue, and the health risks can affect us all.
Here’s what you can do:
1. Know Your Water Source: If you live in an area with known PFAS contamination, consider having your water tested. Many local health departments offer resources or can direct you to certified labs.
Also read: Think your fish is healthy? A shocking new risk might change your mind!
2. Filter Your Water: Not all filters remove PFAS, but some activated carbon and reverse osmosis systems are effective. Check for filters certified to remove PFAS.
3. Stay Informed: The EPA and your state’s environmental agency regularly update information about PFAS in drinking water. Sign up for alerts or check their websites.
4. Limit Exposure from Other Sources: PFAS aren’t just in water. They’re in some nonstick cookware, stain-resistant carpets, and even some cosmetics. When possible, choose alternatives and check product labels.
5. Advocate for Change: Many communities are pushing for stricter regulations and cleanup efforts. Your voice matters—contact your local representatives and support organizations working to reduce PFAS pollution.
Source: KenDBerryMD / Youtube.
What’s Next in PFAS Research?
The Michigan State team isn’t stopping here. They’re now studying how PFAS exposure affects local and homegrown food, with results expected in the next year.
This is especially important for those who garden or raise their own produce—another reason to stay tuned.
Read next: New study reveals millions exposed to toxic chemicals in drinking water
Have you or someone you know been affected by water contamination? Are you concerned about PFAS in your area? Do you have tips for reducing exposure or questions about water safety? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below!
