Thousands of sports fields have now been installed with artificial turf, but concerns are growing over the presence of PFAS on these surfaces. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), nick-named "forever chemicals," have been linked to serious health risks, including cancer and hormonal disruption. Exposure could be a hidden danger for athletes who regularly practice on artificial turf.
In this article, we will explore the truth about PFAS in turf and its potential impact on athletes' health.
How PFAS End Up in Artificial Turf
Artificial turf is now more prevalent in sports fields and playgrounds due to its durability, low maintenance, and consistency. These artificial turfs contain PFAS, which is added to improve water resistance, durability, and fire retardancy.
According to The Guardian, artificial turf consists of multiple layers, including plastic grass blades. A plastic backing secures the blades, and an infill weighs down the turf to keep the blades upright. The industry claims that PFAS is necessary for manufacturing grass blades and backing.
PFAS can also enter turf through contaminated infill materials, like recycled rubber or synthetic fibers. Over time, these chemicals can leach into the air, water, and skin, exposing athletes and communities to potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure.
Health Risks of PFAS Exposure for Athletes
Athletes face a higher risk of PFAS exposure due to regular, intense physical contact with artificial turf. These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled from dust, or ingested when hands touch the mouth after contact with turf.
A study conducted by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility found that soccer players and coaches absorb PFAS from their skin. The initial study was done on a few players and coaches after soccer games played on the artificial turf. It was found that the amount of PFAS on the skin in three out of four players has increased.
By contrast, nothing was observed in the players after playing on grass fields. Every artificial field tested was found to leach PFAS that could contaminate ground and surface water.
Prolonged exposure has been linked to serious health issues, including weakened immune function, hormone disruption, and increased cancer risk. Unlike casual exposure, athletes experience repeated contact, leading to a greater buildup of PFAS in their bodies, heightening long-term health concerns.
Are certain age groups of athletes more vulnerable to PFAS exposure?
Yes, younger athletes, especially children and teenagers, are more vulnerable to PFAS exposure due to their developing bodies and higher hand-to-mouth behaviors. Their metabolism and growing organs make them more susceptible to the harmful effects of PFAS, increasing long-term health risks compared to adults.
Raising Awareness on PFAS Risks and Their Impact
Growing concerns over PFAS exposure have led to increased awareness of their dangers in various industries.
These toxic chemicals, long used in products like firefighting foam, have contaminated water sources and raised serious health concerns, states TorHoerman Law. Studies link prolonged PFAS exposure to severe health issues, including kidney, bladder, and testicular cancers, as well as thyroid and immune system disorders.
Legal actions like the AFFF lawsuit have played a crucial role in bringing attention to the widespread impact of PFAS contamination. Beyond firefighting foam, PFAS are also present in artificial turf. With athletes frequently in contact with synthetic fields, concerns are growing over potential exposure and long-term health effects.
As awareness grows, there is increasing pressure to regulate these harmful substances. Efforts are also focused on developing safer, PFAS-free alternatives to protect public health and the environment.
What industries other than firefighting have been impacted by PFAS exposure?
Beyond firefighting, industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, and food packaging have been impacted by PFAS exposure. Workers in these fields face risks from contaminated water, air, and materials used in production. Agriculture and textiles are also impacted, with PFAS present in soil and fabrics.
Are Athletes More at Risk Than the General Population?
Yes, athletes are more at risk than the general population due to frequent and prolonged exposure to artificial turf containing PFAS. Unlike casual users, athletes train intensely, increasing skin contact, inhalation of turf dust, and accidental ingestion of chemicals. High physical activity leads to greater absorption through sweat and abrasions.
Younger athletes who play on turf from an early age face cumulative PFAS exposure over time. This prolonged and repeated contact raises their risk of developing health issues, such as hormone disruption, immune suppression, and increased cancer susceptibility.
Some studies reported by AP News state that artificial turfs are more dangerous than natural grass fields. It is not only because of PFAS but also due to a higher number of injury rates. It was found that there were 16% more injuries per match on artificial turf than in grass fields.
How Athletes and Teams Can Minimize Exposure
Athletes and teams can take proactive steps to minimize PFAS exposure from artificial turf. Wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves and leggings, reduces direct skin contact. Washing hands and showering immediately after playing helps remove any chemical residues. Hydrating with clean, filtered water prevents ingestion of PFAS-contaminated dust.
Using natural grass fields when possible and advocating for PFAS-free turf alternatives can further reduce risks. Teams can also push for regular testing of playing surfaces and educate players on safe practices to limit long-term health effects from PFAS exposure.
Does washing after playing on artificial turf lower PFAS absorption?
Washing after playing on artificial turf may help remove PFAS residue from the skin, but it does not prevent absorption entirely. PFAS can still enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or prolonged contact. Limiting exposure and choosing PFAS-free turf options are the best precautions.
Regulations and Efforts to Reduce PFAS in Sports Fields
Numerous initiatives are emerging to reduce PFAS in sports fields as awareness of their health risks grows. Some states have banned PFAS in artificial turf production, while federal agencies push for stricter guidelines on chemical use. Manufacturers are exploring PFAS-free alternatives, such as organic infill and natural grass hybrids, to minimize exposure.
According to Sports Destination Management, artificial turf manufacturers committed to creating 100% PFAS-free synthetic turf in the US, as of January 1, 2024. Earlier, a few manufacturers did use PFAS as an extrusion chemical in synthetic turf; however, the PFAS used was less concerning.
Toxic-Free Future reports that Dick’s Sporting Goods has discreetly committed to eliminating PFAS “forever chemicals” from its private-label textile products. This decision aligns with a significant revision of its Restricted Substance List (RSL) introduced in March. As one of the country’s leading sporting goods retailers, the company operates over 850 stores and generated $12.37 billion in sales in 2022.
Advocacy groups and researchers are also urging transparency in turf composition and safer material development. These combined efforts aim to protect athletes and communities from long-term PFAS-related health risks while maintaining safe, high-quality sports surfaces.
Protecting Athletes from PFAS Exposure
As PFAS-related health risks continue to be a concern, athletes, teams, and organizations need to take preventive measures. By reducing turf exposure, advocating for PFAS-free alternatives, and practicing proper hygiene, athletes can protect their health. Continued research and stronger regulations will be key to mitigating the long-term impact of these harmful chemicals.
