Publications by authors named "Folla Unasa-Apelu"
Article Synopsis
- PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are harmful environmental pollutants that have not been extensively studied in low- and middle-income countries like Samoa; this study aimed to investigate their presence in infants' blood.
- The research analyzed blood samples from infants at birth and 4 months old, finding 19 PFAS in cord blood and 12 in dried blood spots, with notable associations to factors like sex, maternal age, and socio-economic status.
- Results indicated that PFAS levels were generally lower than in other reported studies, except for one type (PFHxS), while feeding practices also influenced PFAS concentrations, showing higher levels in formula-fed infants compared to those who were exclusively breastfed.
Article Synopsis
- PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are long-lasting environmental contaminants linked to health risks, but research on their effects in low- and middle-income countries like Samoa is limited.
- A study analyzed 40 PFAS compounds in infant cord blood from 66 newborns and dried blood samples from 50 infants at four months old, finding that 19 PFAS were present in cord blood and 12 in dried blood.
- The study revealed associations between PFAS concentrations and factors like sex, socioeconomic status, and feeding methods, marking the first evidence of PFAS contamination in Samoa and highlighting the need for further research on its health impacts.
