Date of Award
Spring 5-14-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department/Program
Forensic Science
Language
English
First Advisor or Mentor
Ana Pego
Second Reader
Marta Concheiro-Guisan
Third Advisor
Sarah Eller
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals that raise significant toxicological concerns due to their environmental persistence and potential health hazards. This research examines the presence and concentration of selected PFAS compounds in human hair samples from volunteers in New York, comparing these results with global trends found in peer-reviewed research. Hair was selected as the biological matrix for its non-invasive collection method, ability to reflect exposure, and long-term chemical stability. For analysis, a validated LCMS/ MS technique was utilized to analyze hair samples (n = 27) for three compounds: perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA). PFHpA was found in 100% of the samples, with concentrations reaching up to 158 pg/mg. PFOA and PFNA were detected in 67% and 7% of the samples, respectively. Results indicate that PFAS levels in New York were generally lower than those in industrial areas of China and Belgium, but higher than those in regions with stricter regulations, such as Italy and Hong Kong. The findings imply that while regulatory measures may decrease exposure to legacy PFAS (e.g., PFOA), alternative compounds like PFHpA are becoming more common. This study emphasizes the effectiveness of hair as a biomonitoring tool for PFAS. It underlines the necessity for ongoing monitoring to observe changes in human exposure resulting from industrial practices, shifts in government policies, and to better adapt and understand the role of PFAS in society as a whole.
Recommended Citation
Ameer, Ashef, "PFAS Levels in Hair: Comparing US Populations to Global Trends" (2025). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/jj_etds/344
