Superfund Research Program

February 2026

Paper of the Month

The long-term effectiveness of weight-loss surgery may be diminished in adolescents with higher presurgical levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), according to researchers at the University of Rhode Island Superfund Research Program Center.

Weight-loss surgery can effectively treat obesity in teens, a major public health challenge, but for reasons that are unclear, many surgery patients regain weight within one year. Past research indicates PFAS — long-lasting chemicals that can disrupt hormones and metabolic processes — might reduce the effectiveness of weight-loss interventions in adults, so researchers explored if similar patterns emerged for teens.

After analyzing the plasma levels of several PFAS in teens, the scientists found higher plasma concentrations of some PFAS were associated with greater body mass index regain, reduced percent weight loss, and increased waist circumference from 1-5 years after weight-loss surgery.

To learn more, see the NIEHS Environmental Factor Newsletter.