Growth Hormone Signaling and Endocrine Disruption
Normal childhood growth depends on intact growth hormone (GH) – insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals that interfere with GH axis function can impair linear growth and final adult stature in exposed children.
PFAS and IGF-1 Pathway Disruption
PFAS compounds reduce IGF-1 bioavailability by altering IGF binding protein concentrations. Lower IGF-1 levels in PFAS-exposed children correlate with reduced height-for-age z-scores in several birth cohort studies conducted in Europe and North America.
Growth Velocity Evidence
Longitudinal growth velocity analyses show slower mid-childhood linear growth in children with higher PFAS serum levels. Effect sizes are modest but cumulative over childhood, potentially contributing to measurable reductions in final adult height.
Pediatric Growth Monitoring
Pediatricians tracking children with below-average growth velocity in PFAS-contaminated communities should consider environmental exposure assessment. Growth hormone deficiency workup may need to include PFAS as a potential confounding or contributing factor.