Environmental Contaminants and Congenital Heart Defects: Focus on PFAS, PAHs, and Other Emerging Exposures.

BACKGROUND

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most prevalent birth defects, contributing significantly to infant morbidity and mortality. While genetic factors account for a subset of CHDs, environmental exposures during critical periods of cardiac development are increasingly recognized as potential contributors.

CONTENT: This review synthesizes current evidence linking per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and other environmental contaminants to CHDs. We discuss epidemiological findings, biological mechanisms, exposure assessment methodologies, and future research directions, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches in understanding and mitigating environmental risks to fetal cardiac development.

SUMMARY: This review emphasizes the need for integrated approaches in understanding and mitigating environmental risks to fetal cardiac development.