Distribution of PFAS.

BackgroundThe impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on constipation, as mediated through gastrointestinal absorption and perturbations to the intestinal microecology, remains poorly understood.ObjectiveThis study seeks to explain the relationship between PFAS and constipation.MethodsA total of 2945 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2010 were included in this study. Constipation was defined using the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS) based on stool consistency. The relationship between PFAS and constipation was evaluated using weighted logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis, while adjusting for confounding variables.ResultsThe weighted median concentration of total PFAS (ΣPFAS) was significantly lower in individuals with constipation (19.01 μg/L) compared to those without constipation (23.30 μg/L) (p 0.05). The RCS analysis demonstrated a linear inverse relationship between PFAS levels and constipation.ConclusionThe findings of this study provide evidence of a significant inverse correlation between serum concentrations of PFAS, particularly PFOA and PFHxS, and constipation.