PFAS & the liver: The mechanisms behind liver cancer risk

Most commonly referred to as 'forever chemicals' due to their persistent nature, PFAS currently sits at the center of a massive crisis affecting not only the environment but also human health. Furthermore, the list of evidence connecting PFAS exposure to serious health issues like liver cancer continues to grow. A patient may be diagnosed with liver cancer if they show symptoms like:

• jaundice or the yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• a swollen abdomen
• unexplained tiredness or weakness
• nausea and vomiting
• loss of appetite
• sudden weight loss
• pale and chalky bowel movements
• dark-colored urine
• fever

PFAS accumulation in the liver

Scientists believe that the inability of PFAS to break down can cause adverse health effects. When absorbed into the bloodstream, these synthetic chemicals can remain in the body for a long time. Eventually, they will accumulate in tissues and organs such as the liver. Doing so can disrupt functions promoting abnormal cell growth, a precursor to cancer.

According to several studies, PFAS can affect the liver and may lead to an increased risk of liver cancer by:

• Altering metabolic function: Any disruption in the normal production of glucose, amino acids, and bile acids in the liver may lead to serious health complications such as liver damage or, worse, HCC.
• Promoting oxidative stress: A 2024 study examined how PFAS exposure affects rodents and reported that these 'forever chemicals' could trigger an increase in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in liver cells, leading to oxidative stress that can create a tumor-conducive environment.
• Interfering with nuclear receptors: A separate study from the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology revealed that PFAS can bind to and activate nuclear receptors such as PPAR-alpha. These nuclear receptors are responsible for regulating lipid metabolism, cell growth, and inflammation in the liver. When activated, they can trigger abnormal cell growth and tumor development.

Exposure to PFAS and higher risks of developing liver cancer

Some of the most notable studies analyzing the relationship between PFAS and liver cancer found that individuals with higher concentrations of PFOS are 4.5 times more likely to have hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer. PFOS is a type of PFAS compound and has been classified as a 'potential human carcinogen' by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Likewise, another study from the journal Environmental Health Perspectives showed that exposure to certain PFAS types - specifically PFOA, PFOS, and PFNA - may increase the chances of developing NAFLD, a condition where excessive fat buildup occurs in liver cells, and a known risk factor for liver cancer.

File your PFAS liver cancer claim with the support of ELG Law

Patients diagnosed with liver cancer who may have been constantly exposed to the harmful PFAS must seek help immediately, as they may be eligible to receive compensation. You may also contact our team today to learn how we can provide you with the legal support you need. Since 1990, our law firm has helped dozens of individuals file PFAS claims and obtain the compensation they deserve.