Given the association between poor sleep and various health issues, this research underscores the importance of addressing sleep quality for better overall well-being.

Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to various health issues, including hormonal disruption, weakened immune systems, and increased cancer risks, particularly kidney and testicular cancer.

The study suggests that PFAS exposure may begin before birth and persist throughout an individual's life, with blood measurements reflecting cumulative exposure.

Published in the journal Environmental Advances, the findings emphasize the urgent need for awareness and action regarding the health risks posed by PFAS.

These findings may have significant policy implications for public health and environmental safety, highlighting the ongoing need for research into PFAS health impacts.

This research is groundbreaking as it is the first to explore the relationship between PFAS-affected genes and sleep disorders.

PFAS, known for their persistence in the environment and accumulation in the human body, break down slowly and are commonly found in consumer products such as non-stick cookware and waterproof clothing.

A recent study from the University of Southern California has established a connection between exposure to four specific 'forever chemicals'—PFDA, PFHxS, PFOA, and PFOS—and poor sleep quality in young adults.

Cortisol, crucial for regulating sleep-wake cycles, may be disrupted by PFAS, potentially leading to serious health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.

Lead author Shiwen (Sherlock) Li noted the immediate impact of sleep disruption, which can have long-term consequences for physical and mental health.

Researchers analyzed blood samples and sleep data from 144 participants aged 19 to 24, assessing their PFAS levels and sleep patterns over several years.

The study identified over 600 genes affected by PFAS exposure, with seven genes activated that are related to sleep disorders, including HSD11B1, which regulates cortisol levels.