Khaberni - A recent scientific study warns that a chemical widely used in household items and clothing may negatively affect facial feature development in fetuses during early pregnancy.
According to the research, perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), which is one of the so-called "forever chemicals," may be associated with a 10% increase in the likelihood of facial deformities, such as smaller eye size and jaw formation issues.
The results were published in the Journal of Chemical Research in Toxicology, offering the first mechanistic explanation of how this substance affects facial development.
Gynecology expert Valentina Milanova stated that the study's importance lies not only in proving the existence of harm but also in explaining the mechanism of its occurrence, noting that the substance disrupts an enzyme responsible for regulating retinoic acid, a key element in forming fetal facial features.
She added that this disruption leads to an imbalance in retinoic acid levels, which reflects on the development of the face, skull, and eyes, pointing out that "either an increase or decrease in this acid could be equally harmful."
Reproductive health expert Dr. Deborah Lee clarified that PFDA belongs to the PFAS group known as the "forever chemicals" due to their stability over long periods in the environment and body, and their ability to accumulate over years.
She explained that exposure to these substances could occur through daily products such as plastic containers, non-stick cookware, carpets, stain-resistant clothing, and cosmetics, as they can be transferred through inhalation or ingestion.
The study indicated that the most sensitive stages of pregnancy are between the fourth and tenth week, a period during which the face, jaw, and eyes are formed; making the fetus more susceptible to any chemical disruption.
Researchers also warned that some of these substances could remain in the body for long periods, possibly up to years, increasing the likelihood of their accumulation over time.
In its recommendations, the study called for reducing exposure to these compounds as much as possible, by avoiding heating food in plastic containers, relying on fresh foods, and reducing the use of water or stain-resistant products.
