Sports are synonymous with well-being and health. But did you know that invisible enemies lurk in your sports equipment and fields, potentially threatening your family’s health, especially your children’s?

We’re talking about PFAS/PFOS, those perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances found in many everyday products.

Where are PFAS hiding in our sports practice?

  • Technical Clothing: Ski jackets, hiking pants, and other waterproof and breathable clothing are often treated with PFAS/PFOS to make them water and stain-resistant. This also includes gym, athletic, and badminton clothes, among others.
  • Sports Fields: Synthetic turf on football and rugby fields can contain PFAS/PFOS used to make them durable and weather-resistant. These PFAS can then rise to the surface through capillarity and contaminate the ambient air. PFAS are also found in tartan tracks.
  • Gyms: Gym mats, badminton court floors, and climbing walls can also contain PFAS/PFOS to make them more durable and easier to clean.

How do PFAS/PFOS invade our bodies?

  • Inhalation: This is the primary route of absorption of PFAS/PFOS present in the ambient air, especially during intense physical effort.
  • Ingestion: PFAS/PFOS can settle on surfaces and be accidentally ingested, particularly by children who put their hands in their mouths.
  • Skin Contact: Direct contact with clothing, sports mats, or floors contaminated by PFAS/PFOS can promote their absorption through the skin, especially the sensitive skin of children.

What are the health risks?

Scientific studies have linked exposure to PFAS/PFOS to numerous health problems, especially in children:

  • Growth and developmental delays
  • Thyroid problems
  • Immune system disorders
  • Behavioral and learning issues
  • An increased risk of certain cancers

For more information on children’s particular exposure, read our dedicated article.

Why are children more exposed?

  • Lower body weight: This means that the same amount of PFAS/PFOS will have a more significant impact on their health.
  • Developing immune system: They are more sensitive to the harmful effects of chemical substances.
  • They sweat more than adults: Sweating can promote the absorption of PFAS/PFOS present in clothing and sports mats.

How can you protect your family?

  • Choose sports clothing made with natural materials and free from PFAS/PFOS.
  • Wash sports clothing after each use, if possible.
  • Avoid excessive sweating in waterproof clothing.
  • Prefer natural grass sports fields.
  • Wear closed shoes in gyms.
  • Inquire about the composition of sports mats and gym floors.

By taking these simple steps, you can help reduce your family’s exposure to PFAS/PFOS and protect their health.

Remember, the invisible enemies of sports are not invincible. By staying informed and adopting simple habits, we can protect our family and provide them with a healthier environment.

Feel free to share this article with your friends and family to raise awareness about the dangers of PFAS/PFOS.

Our Solutions to Avoid PFAS