A Comprehensive Exploration
As the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, pancreatic cancer presents a formidable challenge with a grim prognosis. Moreover, despite strides in understanding the genetic underpinnings of pancreatic cancer, the median survival time remains below 6 months post-diagnosis, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 10%. This article delves into the multifaceted factors contributing to pancreatic cancer, including the role of PFAS chemicals.
Environmental Implications of PFOA
PFOA, part of the perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) chemical group, played a pivotal role in environmental contamination since the 1940s. Specifically, PFAS consists of over 4,700 persistent chemicals causing widespread ground and surface water pollution. The widespread use of these forever chemicals in products including:
- firefighting foam (AFFF)
- Teflon
- Scotchguard
Primarily 3M and Dupont manufactured the chemicals for use in these products. Moreover, the widespread government and civilian use of these products has led to human exposure through various sources, including drinking water, household dust, food products, and firefighting foam exposures.
PFOA Exposure and Human Health
Scientific researchers have linked perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) to chemically induced pancreatic cancer. The resistance of PFOA to decomposition in the environment has resulted in detectable levels in 98% of the American population, reaching historical highs in occupationally exposed individuals, like firefighters. Furthermore, epidemiologic studies associate PFOA exposure with adverse health effects, including liver, Leydig, and pancreatic acinar cell tumors, emphasizing its potential carcinogenic impact.
Pancreatic Cancer Progression: A Molecular Landscape
With over 85% of human pancreatic cancers classified as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), understanding the molecular landscape is crucial. PDAC progresses through distinct stages, including pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) and acinar–ductal metaplasia (ADM), with the mutation of the KRAS gene playing a central role.
PFAS Role in Causing Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Inflammation and oxidative stress emerge as key players in pancreatic cancer progression. Chronic inflammation, particularly in the presence of oncogenic KRAS mutations, significantly increases PDAC incidence. PFOA induces oxidative stress, which is a hallmark of carcinogens. Researchers have demonstrated this through in vitro studies and investigation into PFOA exposure in mouse pancreas.
PFAS Promotion of Pancreatic Cancer
By examining the carcinogenesis stages – initiation, promotion, and progression, researchers revealed PFOA’s potential impact on the promotion stage. This underscores the need for continued research to further understand the environmental impact of PFAS chemicals like PFOA on pancreatic cancer.
