American scientists have identified a new factor that significantly increases liver damage. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Louisville, published in Toxicological Sciences, revealed that the combination of alcohol and so-called "forever chemicals" can severely impair liver function.

The focus is on PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate), one of the most common substances in the PFAS group, which has been used for decades in nonstick cookware, food packaging, water-resistant clothing, and other household products. These chemicals are extremely persistent, accumulating in the body and remaining for years.

In animal experiments, researchers simulated the combined exposure to alcohol and PFOS. The results showed that this combination dramatically worsens liver fat accumulation, disrupts metabolic processes, and activates genes linked to oxidative stress and even cancer development. Alarmingly, up to 60% of accumulated PFOS is stored in the liver — the organ most vulnerable to alcohol-related damage.

Scientists suggest that PFOS may be the missing link that explains why only some individuals develop severe liver disease despite consuming similar amounts of alcohol.

The authors emphasize the need for further research, including the development of drugs to counteract the combined damage caused by alcohol and PFAS. In the meantime, they recommend reducing PFAS exposure by choosing stainless steel cookware, filtering drinking water, avoiding packaging with nonstick coatings, and opting for products labeled PFAS-free.