Elevated Levels of PFAS Detected in Fitness Tracker and Smartwatch Bands

New Research Highlights Health Concerns in Wearable Devices

Fitness trackers and smartwatch bands have joined the growing list of consumer products containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” according to a study conducted by the University of Notre Dame.

The study, published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, tested 22 smartwatch bands purchased from a range of brands and price points. It revealed that nine bands contained elevated levels of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), a specific type of PFAS. These levels were particularly prevalent in higher-priced bands costing more than $15.

Significant Findings

The research marks the first investigation into PFAS presence in wearable technology. Among the findings, some bands exhibited PFHxA levels exceeding 1,000 parts per billion, an unusually high concentration for consumer products, noted Graham Peaslee, co-author of the study and professor emeritus in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Notre Dame.

PFAS, which have been used since the 1950s, are valued for their resistance to water, heat, and stains but are also notorious for their persistence in the environment. Known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS do not degrade, contaminating soil and groundwater systems for decades.

Testing and Results

Researchers employed advanced techniques, including particle-induced gamma-ray emission ion beam analysis and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, to measure total fluorine levels and identify specific PFAS types. High fluorine levels strongly indicate PFAS presence.

• Price Point Findings:
  • Expensive Bands (over $30): All three tested contained significantly elevated fluorine levels.
  • Midrange Bands ($15–$30): Twelve out of 14 bands showed high fluorine concentrations.
  • Inexpensive Bands (under $15): All five tested had minimal fluorine content, measuring less than 1%.

The bands were also made from various materials, including fluoroelastomers, which are synthetic polymers commonly used to make rubber resistant to sweat, oils, and lotions.

Potential Health Risks

PFAS exposure is linked to several health conditions, including:

• Immunosuppression
• Hormonal dysregulation
• Developmental delays in children
• Low birth weight and accelerated puberty
• High blood pressure in pregnant women
• Increased risks of kidney and testicular cancer

The chemicals can transfer from treated surfaces onto skin or into the air and dust, leading to inhalation, ingestion, and dermal absorption.

Concerns and Future Research

Alyssa Wicks, lead author of the study, emphasized the need for more research into how PFAS interact with the skin, citing earlier studies showing significant skin absorption of some PFAS types. Given the widespread use of smartwatches and fitness trackers—worn by 1 in 5 Americans for an average of 11 hours daily, according to a Pew Research study—the potential for chronic exposure raises serious concerns.

“Understanding the pathways of PFAS exposure is critical, especially for wearable products that remain in close contact with the skin for extended periods,” Wicks said.

Call for Action

The findings underscore the need for stricter regulations and standardized testing methods to identify PFAS in wearable devices and other consumer goods. Researchers urge manufacturers to minimize PFAS usage and explore safer alternatives to protect public health.

As wearable technology continues to gain popularity, addressing PFAS contamination is essential to ensure user safety and reduce the environmental impact of these persistent chemicals.