A preliminary experiment conducted by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) reveals concerning levels of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on the skin of soccer players and coaches after playing on artificial turf fields. The Washington Post reported on March 12 on the PEER test results, which found PFAS levels increased on the skin in three out of four participants following soccer matches on artificial turf. In contrast, no similar increase was observed after games on natural grass fields. The presence of PFAS is alarming due to their association with several serious health issues, including cancer, birth defects, and developmental and immune deficiencies, among others.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) writes that PFAS exposure risks are particularly concerning for young children, who are more susceptible due to their developing bodies and at risk for higher levels of exposure than adults. Known as “forever chemicals” for their persistence in the environment, PFAS continue to accumulate in the human body, posing long-term health risks. Kyla Bennett, PhD, science policy director at PEER and a former scientist and lawyer with EPA, emphasized the need for further research. “Although this study is preliminary, it highlights the potential risk of dermal absorption of PFAS from artificial turf,” Dr. Bennett stated. She also pointed out the significant gap in our understanding of PFAS exposure through skin contact, a potentially major pathway of exposure. Larger scale scientific studies are currently underway; as The Washington Post noted, “Wayne State University researchers are preparing to conduct a study on whether the chemicals found in turf can affect the endocrine system. For more information, please see Beyond Pesticides reporting on PFAS adding to the legacy of persistent toxics hurting generations of people and the environment.