A troubling discovery has emerged concerning the fitness trackers and smartwatches that many of us wear daily. A study conducted by the University of Notre Dame has revealed that these devices, specifically the bands made of synthetic rubber, contain high levels of PFAS—commonly referred to as "forever chemicals." This finding raises concerns about the potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to these substances.
High Concentrations of PFAS Found in Smartwatch Bands
The research, which appeared in the journal Environmental Science and Technology, tested 22 popular smartwatch bands available in the U.S. market. Surprisingly, the more expensive bands, those retailing for over $15, showed the highest concentrations of these hazardous chemicals. "The most remarkable thing we found in this study was the very high concentrations of just one PFAS—there were some samples above 1,000 parts per billion of PFHxA, which is much higher than most PFAS we have seen in consumer products," stated Graham Peaslee, a professor emeritus at Notre Dame and co-author of the study.The Risks of PFAS Exposure
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that are highly persistent in the environment and the human body—hence the nickname "forever chemicals." They have been linked to numerous health issues, including cancer, obesity, metabolic disruptions, and immune system impairments. The concern is particularly acute for smartwatch users, as these devices are designed to be worn continuously, especially during exercise when sweating could increase the absorption of PFAS through the skin.
Calls for Transparency and Safer Materials
Although specific brands were not named in the study, the findings have prompted calls for greater transparency from manufacturers about the materials used in their products. "Fifteen of the 22 bands we tested had a high percentage of total fluorine concentrations, and nine contained perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA)," noted Alyssa Wicks, a graduate student involved in the research. This indicator of PFAS presence suggests that many consumers may be unknowingly exposing themselves to these dangerous chemicals daily. As awareness of PFAS in consumer products grows, it is becoming increasingly clear that regulation and innovation in manufacturing are needed to ensure the safety of wearable technology. Consumers are advised to seek out more information on the products they use, as continuous exposure to PFAS can have significant health implications over time.