In brief
The UK Health Security Agency announced a comprehensive study using samples from the Health Survey for England to assess exposure to PFAS, lead, arsenic and other chemicals. Initial results are slated for 2027, with early evidence indicating limited health effects but possible links to raised cholesterol and lower birth weight. The agency stresses that further research is required to clarify the significance of these findings.
London – On Tuesday, Nov. 3 2026, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) announced it will launch a major study to assess exposure to so‑called "forever chemicals" and other potentially harmful substances, including lead and arsenic, in the general population.
The project will analyze blood and urine samples collected through the Health Survey for England to determine levels of per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), heavy metals and other chemicals in the population.
Initial findings from the study are expected in 2027, with the agency noting that early evidence suggests limited health effects but that further research is needed to understand the implications.
Dr Edward Wynne‑Evans, UKHSA’s director of radiation, chemicals, climate and environmental hazards, said the evidence available to date indicates that any health effects are likely to be limited, although the strongest evidence currently points to possible associations with raised cholesterol and lower birth weight.
He added that the strongest evidence currently points to possible associations with raised cholesterol and lower birth weight, but that further research is needed to better understand these findings and their significance.
The UKHSA is working with international partners to monitor emerging evidence and assess potential health risks, but it does not currently recommend routine blood testing for PFAS, citing insufficient evidence to determine what medical action should follow a particular test result.