Alarming Levels of “Forever Chemicals” Found in Smartwatch and Fitness Tracker Bands
A groundbreaking study has revealed that several brands of smartwatch and fitness tracker bands contain “very high concentrations” of harmful man-made chemicals, raising concerns about their potential impact on human health. Researchers from the University of notre Dame tested 22 wristbands, many of which were made with fluoroelastomers, synthetic rubbers designed to repel sweat, skin oils, and water. Shockingly, nine of these bands were found to have elevated levels of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), a type of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS).
PFAS, frequently enough referred to as “forever chemicals”, are notorious for their persistence in the surroundings and their links to serious health issues, including an increased risk of certain cancers.According to the study, some samples contained PFHxA levels exceeding 1,000 parts per billion, a concentration far higher than what is typically found in consumer products.
“The most remarkable thing we found in this study was the very high concentrations of just one PFAS — there were some samples above 1,000 parts per billion of PFHxA, which is much higher than most PFAS we have seen in consumer products,” said Graham Peaslee, study co-author and professor emeritus in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Notre Dame.
The ubiquity of PFAS
Table of Contents
PFAS are not limited to wearable technology. These chemicals have been detected in a wide range of everyday products, including fast food containers, non-stick cookware, stain- and water-resistant fabrics, shampoo, cosmetics, paints, and adhesives. Their widespread use has led to growing concerns about their long-term effects on human health and the environment.
The Popularity of Wearable Technology
Smartwatches and fitness trackers have become increasingly popular, with about one in five Americans using these devices, according to a 2019 survey. Their convenience and functionality make them a staple in modern life, but this new research highlights a potential downside to their widespread adoption.
key Findings at a Glance
| Key Point | Details |
|———————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Number of Bands Tested | 22 |
| Bands with Elevated PFHxA | 9 |
| Highest PFHxA Concentration | Over 1,000 parts per billion |
| Common Material | Fluoroelastomers (synthetic rubbers) |
| health Risks Linked to PFAS | Increased risk of certain cancers, among other health issues |
What This Means for Consumers
While the findings are concerning, experts advise against panic. “There’s no need to panic if you own a smartwatch or fitness tracker band with fluoroelastomer,” said Alan, a researcher involved in the study. however, the finding underscores the need for greater openness and regulation in the manufacturing of consumer products.
A Call for Further Research
The study also highlights the limited research on dermal absorption of PFAS. As Alyssa Wicks, lead author of a related study, noted, “A European study earlier this year highlighted critically important skin transfer of some PFAS, but this is just the tip of the iceberg.”
As the demand for wearable technology continues to grow, so does the urgency for more thorough studies on the potential risks associated with these devices. For now, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and consider the materials used in their everyday products.
For more data on how to minimize exposure to PFAS, check out this guide on avoiding forever chemicals.
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This article is based on findings from the University of Notre Dame study and related research. For further reading, explore the original study and additional resources on PFAS contamination.
Study finds PFAS Chemicals in Smartwatch and Fitness Tracker Bands, Raising Health Concerns
A groundbreaking study has revealed that PFAS chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are present in many smartwatch and fitness tracker bands, raising concerns about potential health risks for millions of users. The research, led by Alyssa Wicks, a graduate student in Professor Graham Peaslee’s lab, found elevated levels of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), a type of PFAS, in bands priced over $15.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are notorious for their persistence in the environment and their potential to cause serious health issues. These chemicals have been linked to reduced immune function, elevated cholesterol, thyroid dysfunction, liver damage, and even an increased risk of certain cancers, such as kidney and testicular cancers.
Key Findings from the Study
The study, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology letters, tested 22 watchbands and found that 15 of them had high levels of total fluorine, a strong indicator of PFAS contamination.Nine of these bands specifically contained PFHxA,a chemical that has been shown to harm the liver,thyroid,red blood cell count,and developing fetuses when exposure occurs at high doses.
“Fifteen of the 22 bands we tested had a high percentage of total fluorine concentrations, and nine contained PFHxA,” Wicks said. “The others used some other unidentified surfactant that wasn’t in our targeted analysis.”
Interestingly, the study also found that three of the most expensive bands, priced over $30, contained considerably higher amounts of fluorine. this suggests that price is not necessarily an indicator of safety when it comes to PFAS contamination.
How PFAS Enter the Body
PFAS are known to enter the body through ingestion,inhalation,and,as recent studies suggest,dermal absorption.A 2024 study by a European research group found that certain types of PFAS can transfer through the skin, though only about 20 of the 14,000 known PFAS compounds have been studied for this pathway.
“Few studies so far have been published regarding the dermal absorption of PFAS,” Wicks noted. “One article published in 2024 by a European research group found that a couple types of PFAS had significant transfer through the skin. That initial study only examined around 20 of the 14,000 known types of PFAS, and more studies are needed to better understand how PFAS travel through the skin.”
Health Risks of PFHxA
PFHxA, the specific PFAS compound identified in the study, is particularly concerning due to its potential health impacts. According to the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA),exposure to high doses of PFHxA can harm the liver,thyroid,red blood cell count,and developing fetus.
What This Means for Consumers
With 21% of American adults reporting that they wear smartwatches or fitness trackers frequently enough, the findings highlight a significant public health concern. While the study is the first of its kind to address PFAS in wearable technology, it underscores the need for more comprehensive research and stricter regulations.
“This is the first study to address PFAS in fitness trackers and smartwatch bands,” Peaslee said. “The results warrant a more comprehensive study on PFAS in watchbands.”
Table: Summary of Key Findings
| Key Metric | Details |
|——————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Total Bands Tested | 22 |
| Bands with High Fluorine | 15 (68%) |
| Bands Containing PFHxA | 9 (41%) |
| Expensive Bands (>$30) | 3 (all contained high fluorine levels) |
| Health Risks of PFHxA | Liver damage, thyroid dysfunction, harm to red blood cells, fetal growth |
Call to Action
As the prevalence of PFAS in everyday products becomes increasingly evident, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and advocate for stricter regulations. For more information on the health risks associated with PFAS, visit the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) PFAS resource page.
The findings of this study serve as a wake-up call for manufacturers, regulators, and consumers alike. As research continues, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and transparency in the products we use daily.
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This article is based on research published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters and additional studies on PFAS exposure.
Article/pii/S004896972303123X”>earlier this year highlighted the critical importance of skin transfer for some PFAS, but this is just the tip of the iceberg.”
What This Means for Consumers
The findings raise crucial questions about the safety of wearable technology, which has become a staple in modern life. While the study does not suggest that consumers should stop using smartwatches or fitness trackers altogether, it does highlight the need for greater transparency and regulation in the manufacturing process.
“There’s no need to panic if you own a smartwatch or fitness tracker band with fluoroelastomer,” said Alan, a researcher involved in the study. “However, this finding underscores the importance of being informed about the materials used in the products we wear daily.”
Steps to Minimize Exposure
For those concerned about PFAS exposure, experts reccommend the following steps:
- Check the Materials: Look for bands made from natural materials like leather, silicone, or stainless steel, which are less likely to contain PFAS.
- Wash Hands Regularly: Frequent handwashing can reduce the risk of dermal absorption, especially after sweating or prolonged use of wearable devices.
- Stay informed: Keep up with the latest research and guidelines on PFAS and other harmful chemicals.
- Advocate for Change: Support initiatives that push for stricter regulations and transparency in the manufacturing of consumer products.
A Call for Further Research
The study underscores the urgent need for more thorough research on the dermal absorption of PFAS and their long-term health effects. As the demand for wearable technology continues to grow, so does the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with these devices.
“This study is a wake-up call for both consumers and manufacturers,” said Wicks. “We need more research to fully understand the implications of PFAS exposure through wearable technology and to develop safer alternatives.”
Conclusion
The presence of PFAS in smartwatch and fitness tracker bands is a concerning discovery,but it also serves as an prospect for greater awareness and action. By staying informed and advocating for safer manufacturing practices, consumers can help drive positive change in the industry.
For more details on how to minimize exposure to PFAS, check out this guide on avoiding forever chemicals.
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This article is based on findings from the University of Notre Dame study and related research. For further reading, explore the original study and additional resources on PFAS contamination.
