The human biomonitoring study will use samples collected through the existing Health Survey England and will also test for substances including lead, arsenic, bisphenols, phthalates and flame retardants.

Initial findings are expected in 2027 and are intended to provide a clearer picture of typical background exposure levels across the population.

PFAS are a large group of man-made chemicals used in a wide range of industrial processes and consumer products. They have attracted growing attention because of their persistence in the environment and questions about their potential effects on human health.

Dr Edward Wynne-Evans, director of radiation, chemicals, climate and environmental hazards at UKHSA, said: "PFAS are an area of significant public interest and we understand the concerns people may have about these chemicals and what they could mean for their health."

He said there were still "important evidence gaps" around what different levels of exposure meant for an individual's long-term health.

"Our work is focused on helping to address those questions through research, biomonitoring and evidence reviews," he said.

Dr Wynne-Evans added that evidence available so far suggested "any health effects are likely to be limited".

He said: "The strongest evidence from across the globe currently relates to possible associations with raised cholesterol and potentially lower birth weight, but further work is required to better understand these findings and their significance."

The study forms part of a wider programme of work by UKHSA, which has recently published an evidence review examining research into PFAS and health outcomes.

The independent Committee on Toxicity is also undertaking a detailed review of the available evidence, while UKHSA is working with international partners, including organisations across Europe, to monitor emerging research.

The Government's PFAS Action Plan sets out a precautionary approach to managing exposure, with restrictions already introduced on the use of some PFAS compounds in certain products and applications.

UKHSA is not currently recommending routine blood tests for PFAS.

Dr Wynne-Evans said: "At present, there is no established clinical intervention linked to a particular PFAS blood level."

He added that, although testing could identify whether PFAS were present, there was insufficient evidence to determine what action should follow from a specific result.

"For that reason, routine testing is not recommended at this time," he said.

People concerned about their health are advised to seek guidance from their GP or healthcare professional.

This story first appeared on Air Quality News