🚨 Japan Takes on \"Forever Chemicals\": A New Battle Begins!
Japan is gearing up to tackle a hidden enemy lurking in everyday life: PFAS, also known as \"forever chemicals\". These substances, found in things like non-stick frying pans 🍳 and waterproof jackets 🧥, have been detected at alarming levels in various parts of the country.
Residents are growing worried 😟 after high concentrations of PFAS were found near military bases and industrial areas. Imagine discovering that chemicals from your favorite raincoat could be causing serious health issues like liver damage or even cancer! 🫀🎗️
In places like the areas near Yokota Air Base in Tokyo and the U.S. Navy base in Yokosuka, PFAS levels have exceeded government standards. And get this: In Hiroshima, PFAS levels in well water were found to be 300 times the provisional limit! 😱
The Science Part
PFAS are nicknamed \"forever chemicals\" because they don't break down over time. They stick around in the environment and in our bodies, possibly leading to problems like thyroid disease, obesity, and fertility issues. Not cool. 🧪💔
The Plan
But here's the good news! 🌟 Japan is launching a three-year government-led study starting in June 2024 to dive deep into this issue. Top universities and institutes like Hokkaido University and the National Institute of Health Sciences are on the case.
- Hokkaido University will study how PFAS affect fat metabolism and development in young people, from babies to teens.
- Hyogo Medical University is testing on mice 🐭 to see if PFAS mess with the immune system and vaccines' effectiveness.
- The National Institute of Health Sciences will explore how these chemicals cause toxicity at the molecular level.
This study is a big step forward in understanding and hopefully defeating these \"forever chemicals\". It's like a real-life science mission to save the day! 🦸♀️🦸♂️
Stay tuned, amigos, as Japan takes on PFAS for a healthier future! 🇯🇵✨
Reference(s):
Japan to study health impact after PFAS detection raises concern
cgtn.com
