Children with more exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAs, had lower forearm density by age 12 and could face greater fracture risk, researchers found, with girls apparently more vulnerable than boys.

“Adolescence is a key period for building strong bones, and achieving optimal bone mass during this time can reduce lifelong risks of fractures and osteoporosis,” lead author Jessie P. Buckley, professor of epidemiology at the University of North Carolina, said in a statement. “Our findings suggest reducing PFAS exposure during key developmental windows could support healthier bones throughout life.”

PFAs are a class of fluorinated compounds used in industrial and consumer products for their stain- and water-resistant properties. People are exposed to these chemicals through consumer products, indoor air, dust, drinking water, seafood and proximity to contaminated areas. PFAs are persistent in the environment and take years to diminish once inside the body.

PFAs are almost impossible to avoid, as widespread use has resulted in measurable amounts turning up in everything from fish and carrots to drinking water to food packaging to cookware and other products.

PFA substances have been detected in human bone tissue and marrow, and might compete with vitamin D by binding with the receptors that favor the vitamin. The UNC researchers compared the amount of PFA compounds in infants’ umbilical blood and at ages 3, 8 and 12 years, to bone density measurements taken at age 12.

A key exposure window seems to be during pregnancy.

“These findings add to growing evidence that PFAs exposure during early life may carry long-term health consequences, underscoring the importance of efforts to reduce contamination in drinking water and consumer products,” Buckley said.

Choosing cookware without PFAs and filtering drinking water might help reduce exposure.

Standard carbon filter pitchers won’t cut it, according to information from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Look for manufacturers that have demonstrated that the water filter can remove PFAs to nondetectable levels. Filters that meet National Sanitation Foundation standards, such as NSF/ANSI 53 and 58, are lab-tested and certified to remove PFAs.

It’s OK to use tap water for showering, brushing teeth, laundry and cleaning, as well as washing produce.

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