PFAS and Eye Health: Molecular Drivers of Ocular Disease at the Intersection of Environment and Health Equity

Background Info: PFAS, or "forever chemicals," are used in everyday items like food packaging, non-stick pans, and water-proof clothing. Research shows that exposure to PFAS can cause serious health problems like cancer, liver damage, and high cholesterol. Low-income communities are exposed at higher rates than others to PFAS, in addition to carrying an overwhelming burden of health disparities. We do not yet know all the ways in which PFAS disturb the environment and human health, including eye health. In this project, we want to understand how exposure to PFAS affects eye health. Methods: In part 1, Dr. Woodlief will expose mice to PFAS and look for changes that may cause eye damage and disease. In part 2, Dr. Cooke Bailey will compare PFAS levels in human blood from patients with and without glaucoma from urban and rural communities. Importance and Implications: This study is important because it helps us understand how forever chemicals may affect vision and eye health. Regardless of where people live, work, and play, it is important to know how environmental exposures are linked to eye problems. These findings will inform strategies to protect vulnerable populations by improving health and reducing health inequalities.

Scholars @ ECU