New Research Finds High Levels of Forever Chemicals in Smartwatch Bands
New research has found high levels of PFAS, forever chemicals, in the bands of common smart and fitness watches.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of over 10,000 highly persistent synthetic chemicals. They are often given the nickname the ‘forever chemicals’, because they do not break down easily in the environment.
Exposure to some PFAS has been linked to numerous adverse health impacts, such as the promotion of certain cancers, disruption of the immune system and reduced fertility.
The study by the University of Notre Dame in the United States looked for PFAS, or indicators of the chemicals, in the bands of 22 smart/fitness watches across numerous price points and brands, including Nike, Apple, Fitbit and Google.
PFAS were found in 15 of the 22 bands, at levels far above those usually found in consumer products.
While some of the brands in this study advertise their use of PFAS (the authors highlight that ‘fluoroelastomer’ indicates their use), some do not. Those bands containing PFAS were found to be more expensive than those without it.
Research has found that PFAS can be absorbed through the skin, but the rate of absorption isn’t known. Nevertheless, Notre Dame Researcher and co-author of the study, Graham Peaslee stated that these findings are worrying due to the fact that watch bands can be pressed against the skin for long periods of time.
Peaslee suggests if you are looking to buy a new watch, silicone watch bands are a safer alternative.
CHEM Trust is calling for an urgent group ban on PFAS chemicals in the EU and the UK, and for the most harmful chemicals to be banned in consumer products.
Read more on PFAS here.
