Could PFAS "Forever Chemicals" Raise Liver and Endometrial Cancer Risk? What New NIH-Funded Research in 2026 Means for You

Researchers at the Keck School of Medicine of USC and the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center have received two grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to investigate whether exposure to PFAS chemicals is associated with an increased risk of liver and endometrial cancers, according to a report from News-Medical. The studies are still in the research phase, but they add to a growing body of scientific interest in how these persistent "forever chemicals" may affect long-term health.

What happened?

According to News-Medical, USC scientists secured two separate NIH grants to fund research examining the potential link between PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) exposure and two specific cancer types, liver cancer and endometrial (uterine lining) cancer. The projects are designed to study biological and population-level data to better understand whether higher PFAS exposure correlates with higher cancer incidence, and if so, through what mechanisms.

It's important to understand what this news is, and isn't. This is a funding announcement for research, not a completed study with definitive results. The grants signal that NIH considers the question scientifically important enough to invest resources in, but the actual findings, if any, will come later as the research progresses and is published in peer-reviewed journals.

Who and what is affected?

PFAS are a large family of synthetic chemicals used for decades in products like non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothing, food packaging, firefighting foam, and some cosmetics. Because they don't break down easily in the environment or the human body, most Americans have measurable levels of PFAS in their blood, according to prior findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This research is broadly relevant to anyone concerned about long-term chemical exposure, but it may be of particular interest to.

• Women, given the focus on endometrial cancer, which affects the lining of the uterus.
• People with known higher PFAS exposure, such as those living near industrial sites, military bases, or areas with contaminated drinking water.
• Anyone with a family history of liver or endometrial cancer who wants to understand emerging risk factors.
• Consumers who use products known to contain PFAS regularly, including certain cookware, cosmetics, and stain-resistant textiles.

Why does this matter?

Liver cancer and endometrial cancer are both cancers whose incidence has been rising in the United States in recent years, and researchers have been searching for environmental factors that might help explain this trend. PFAS have already been associated in prior scientific literature with other health concerns, including effects on cholesterol levels, immune response, and kidney and testicular cancer risk, according to previous research summarized by federal agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).

It's critical to note that an association between a chemical exposure and a disease does not automatically mean the chemical causes the disease. Many factors contribute to cancer risk, including genetics, diet, alcohol use, viral infections (in the case of liver cancer), and hormonal factors (in the case of endometrial cancer). The USC-led research aims to help clarify whether PFAS is one contributing piece of that larger puzzle, and NIH funding suggests the scientific community sees this as a legitimate and pressing question worth answering with rigorous data.

For consumers, this kind of research matters because it can eventually inform public health guidance, regulatory limits on PFAS in water and consumer products, and medical screening recommendations. Until more data is available, though, the responsible takeaway is one of informed caution rather than alarm.

What should you do right now?

While this research plays out, there are practical, low-effort steps you can take to reduce unnecessary PFAS exposure without overhauling your life.

• Check your drinking water. If you're on a public water system, request your utility's latest water quality report, which may include PFAS testing results. If you use well water, consider independent testing.
• Review your cookware and food packaging. Non-stick pans, greaseproof wrappers, and some microwave popcorn bags have historically contained PFAS. Look for products labeled "PFAS-free" when replacing these items.
• Be selective with cosmetics and personal care products. Some waterproof mascaras and long-wear foundations have been found to contain PFAS in past testing.
• Use a product finder tool. Our PFAS product finder can help you identify lower-concern alternatives across categories like cookware, textiles, and personal care items.
• Understand how testing works. If you want to dig deeper into how products and water are evaluated for PFAS, our methodology guide explains the testing standards and thresholds used in consumer safety assessments.

None of these steps guarantee elimination of PFAS exposure, since these chemicals are widespread in the environment, but they can help lower your overall exposure to a level of lower concern.

Bottom Line

NIH has funded USC researchers to study whether PFAS exposure is associated with liver and endometrial cancer risk, according to News-Medical. This is early-stage research, not a confirmed causal link, and results will take time to emerge. In the meantime, consumers can take reasonable, practical steps, like checking water quality and choosing PFAS-free products where possible, to reduce exposure while the science continues to develop. This article is for general consumer information and is not medical or legal advice; talk to a healthcare provider about your individual health concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this research prove PFAS causes liver or endometrial cancer?

No. According to News-Medical, the NIH grants fund research to investigate a possible association between PFAS exposure and these cancers. Association is not the same as proven causation, and the studies are ongoing.

Should I get tested for PFAS in my blood?

Blood testing for PFAS exists but is not routinely recommended for the general public at this time. If you have specific exposure concerns, such as living near a known contamination site, talk to a healthcare provider about whether testing makes sense for you.

How can I reduce my PFAS exposure today?

Practical steps include checking your local water quality report, choosing PFAS-free cookware and food packaging, and being selective about cosmetics. Tools like our product finder can help identify lower-concern options.