Association of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances with Allostatic Load Stratified by Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 Exposure

Abstract

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1 and 2 are persistent infections that affect a significant percentage of United States (US) adults, with 48% having HSV-1 and 12% having HSV-2. Using data stratified by HSV-1 and HSV-2 exposures, this study investigated the association of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of toxic synthetic organofluorine chemical compounds found in environmental, occupational, and home settings, with allostatic load (AL), an index of chronic physiological stress. Descriptive statistics, multivariable logistic regression, and Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) modeling were used to assess the effects of multi-PFAS exposures on AL using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2014. Results indicated participants not exposed to PFAS exhibited 77% to 97% lower odds of higher AL (p < 0.001). For example, PFOS per unit increase brought forth a 2% odds increase in higher AL (OR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.05; p < 0.05). Participants exposed to PFAS had reduced odds of higher AL (77%–79%), regardless of their HSV-1 and HSV-2 status. PFAS exposure was more prevalent in those with HSV-1 (60%) than in those with HSV-2 (20%) infection, while AL levels were comparable in both groups (17%). BKMR revealed a nonlinear PFAS-AL association and confirmed interactions among PFAS. In summary, PFAS exposure increased the likelihood of higher AL among those with persistent HSV infections. Our study enhances the current understanding of the complex dynamics involving PFAS, persistent infections, and AL, which hold significant implications for public health and clinical intervention strategies.

Exploring the Potential Link between PFAS Exposure and Endometrial Cancer: A Review of Environmental and Sociodemographic Factors

“…Due to the health burden caused by PFAS exposure, stress has been known to affect the body’s hormonal balance, immune function, and inflammation levels, all of which could potentially play a role in cancer development. For example, research has found a relationship between PFAS exposure and allostatic load, an index of chronic stress [ 9 , 10 , 11 ]. This indicates that the biological response to stress increases when exposed to PFAS.…”

“…The concept of allostatic load, which represents the cumulative burden of chronic stress and life events, is particularly relevant here. It is hypothesized that individuals with higher allostatic load may exhibit increased sensitivity to the harmful effects of PFAS, thereby elevating their risk for endometrial cancer [ 9 , 10 , 11 ].…”

Association of Combined PFOA, PFOS, Metals and Allostatic Load on Hepatic Disease Risk

“…It is important to note that hepatic disease has a global influence that reaches beyond the healthcare sphere. These diseases represent significant economic and social issues, such as increased healthcare costs, decreased work productivity, chances of mortality, and a lower quality of life for affected persons and their families [ 1 , 2 , 5 ]. Furthermore, the burden of hepatic illnesses does not stop with the patients; it spreads throughout society, affecting careers, employers, and healthcare providers.…”

“…Furthermore, there is growing concern about the influence of environmental toxins and chemicals on liver health. Within this context, the role of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) has come under scrutiny due to their widespread presence and potential health risks [ 5 ]. This growing problem makes it critical to identify the significant factors contributing to hepatic disorders and their impact.…”

“…Per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS), such as PFOA and PFOS, are pervasive environmental contaminants found in numerous everyday items like paint, toys, nonstick cookware, and firefighting foams [ 5 , 7 , 8 ]. Due to their chemical stability, PFAS persists in the environment, contaminating water sources and wildlife and accumulating within human bodies [ 9 , 10 ].…”