Summary

A new study links PFAS “forever chemical” exposure in young adults to reduced gut health, which researchers suggest may drive kidney disease later in life.

PFAS exposure is already associated with kidney disease, but this research finds that disruptions in gut bacteria and metabolites caused by PFAS contribute to up to 50% of kidney function decline over four years.

The study calls for reducing PFAS in the environment and explores potential treatments, including drugs and dietary interventions, to mitigate gut health impacts and prevent kidney disease progression.