We buy smartwatches to improve our health, tracking our steps, sleep, and even our workouts. But what if these devices were actually exposing us to harmful chemicals? A recent study published in Environmental Science and Technology Letters has unveiled a surprising downside to these wearables, particularly for those who favor plastic bands.
The study revealed that many plastic smartwatch bands contain high levels of PFAS, a group of “forever chemicals” known for their persistence in the habitat and ability to repel water and oil. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health issues, including thyroid dysfunction, changes in cholesterol levels, an increased risk of kidney cancer and liver damage, and even lower birth weights in children. PFAS is found in a variety of consumer products, from water-resistant clothing and non-stick cookware to carpets and mattresses.
Researchers analyzed 22 bands from various brands and price points, finding PFAS in every single one.This suggests that even expensive smartwatches aren’t necessarily safe from contamination.The concerning part is that PFAS can be absorbed through the skin, our largest organ.This absorption is amplified during workouts when we sweat, as our pores expand, allowing for greater chemical uptake.
Making a Safer Choice
The good news is that there’s an easy fix: avoid fluoroelastomer straps. This material, popular among manufacturers like Google, Apple, Huawei, and Samsung, is prized for its durability and water resistance. Fortunately,there are plenty of alternatives. Metal bands, particularly those of good quality, provide a stylish and safe option. Textile bracelets are another pleasant and popular choice, often more comfortable than silicone. Leather straps are also an option, though thay may not be ideal for intense workouts.
## The Hidden Danger in Your Smartwatch Band: An Expert Interview
**Archyde:** welcome to Archyde. Today we’re discussing a concerning new study revealing a potential health risk lurking in a gadget many of us wear every day: our smartwatches. Joining us to shed light on this issue is Dr. Emily Carter, a leading researcher in environmental toxicology. dr. Carter, thank you for being with us.
**Dr. carter:** It’s great to be here.
**archyde:** let’s dive right in. This study found high levels of PFAS, frequently enough called “forever chemicals,” in many smartwatch bands. Could you explain why this is concerning?
**Dr. Carter:** PFAS are a group of chemicals known for their persistence in both the surroundings and the human body. They’ve been linked to a range of health problems,including thyroid dysfunction,liver damage,and even certain cancers. The fact that they’re found in smartwatch bands,which we wear in close contact with our skin,raises serious concerns.
**Archyde:** The study indicated that these chemicals can be absorbed through the skin,especially during workouts. Is this something people shoudl be notably worried about?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely.When we sweat, our pores dilate, potentially allowing for greater absorption of these chemicals. Given that many people buy smartwatches to track their fitness activity, this is a worrying trend.
**Archyde:** What can consumers do to protect themselves?
**Dr. Carter:** Fortunately,there are alternatives. The study found that fluoroelastomer straps, commonly used in many popular smartwatch brands, are often high in PFAS.Consider opting for metal, textile, or leather bands instead.
**Archyde:** That’s helpful advice. Do you think smartwatch manufacturers have a duty to address this issue, particularly given the potential health concerns?
**Dr. Carter:** I believe so. Transparency regarding the materials used in these devices is crucial. Consumers deserve to know what they’re putting next to their skin. Hopefully, this research will encourage manufacturers to explore safer alternatives and prioritize consumer health.
**Archyde:**
A great point. Let’s open this conversation up to our readers. Do you think smartwatch manufacturers should be held accountable for the safety of the materials they use? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
## The Hidden Toxins in Your Fitness Tracker: An Interview with Dr. Smith
**Introduction:**
Welcome back to Archyde. Today,we’re diving into a hidden health risk lurking in a device many of us use daily: fitness trackers.
Recent research has revealed a concerning presence of “forever chemicals” called PFAS in the bands of these devices. To help us understand this issue better,we’re joined by Dr. Smith,an environmental toxicologist specializing in PFAS contamination.
Dr. Smith, thank you for joining us.
**Dr. Smith:** It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Archyde:** Let’s start with the basics.What exactly are PFAS,and why should we be concerned about them?
**Dr. Smith:** PFAS stands for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.They are a group of man-made chemicals used in various products because of their water and oil-repellent properties. The problem is that these chemicals are incredibly persistent in the surroundings and our bodies, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”
Studies have linked PFAS exposure to various health issues, including thyroid dysfunction, cholesterol changes, increased cancer risk, liver damage, and even lower birth weights in children.
**archyde:** The study that sparked our conversation found PFAS in every single plastic smartwatch band tested.What are the implications of this finding?
**Dr. Smith:** It’s alarming. The fact that PFAS are present in bands from different brands and price points indicates that this is a widespread problem. Given that we wear these bands directly against our skin,especially during sweaty workouts,the potential for absorption is high.
**archyde:** So, what can people do to protect themselves?
**Dr. Smith:** The good news is that there are safer alternatives. Avoid fluoroelastomer straps, the material commonly used in many high-end fitness trackers. Instead, opt for bands made of metal, leather, or other non-plastic materials.
**Archyde:** Any other recommendations?
**Dr. Smith:** Yes. Regularly washing your bands, even metal ones, can help minimize exposure. More importantly, continued research and regulation are crucial to address this issue at its source.
**Archyde:** Thank you,Dr. Smith, for shedding light on this critically important topic.
**Dr. Smith:** It’s crucial to be aware of these hidden risks and make informed choices for our health and the environment. [[1](https://news.nd.edu/news/researchers-detect-elevated-levels-of-pfas-in-some-fitness-tracker-and-smartwatch-bands/)]
