NIH Study Links “Forever Chemicals” to Higher Risk of Aggressive Breast Cancer
A landmark study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found links between two common “forever chemicals” and an aggressive form of breast cancer, raising questions about the safety of everyday products.
Researchers examined prediagnostic blood samples from nearly 4,000 women enrolled in the NIH’s Sister Study. They found that women with the highest blood levels of:
- Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) had a 67% higher rate of estrogen receptor-negative (ER-negative) breast cancer.
- Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) had a 93% higher rate of this aggressive cancer subtype.
PFAS, commonly called “forever chemicals,” are a large group of synthetic substances used in products such as:
- Non-stick cookware
- Water-resistant clothing
- Food packaging
- Some personal care products
These chemicals are notoriously difficult to break down in the environment and can accumulate in the human body over years or even decades.
Importantly, the study found no clear association between the two chemicals and overall breast cancer risk. This suggests that PFAS may influence specific cancer subtypes through non-hormonal biological pathways, such as changes in gene activity or immune function. The researchers stressed that more studies are needed, particularly to evaluate risks from newer replacement PFAS chemicals increasingly used in consumer goods.
The findings underscore the importance of minimizing exposure to PFAS in everyday products, including certain beauty and personal care items.
Source: ScienceDaily – NIH Study, November 12, 2026