A new human biomonitoring study has revealed that residents of Wallonia are exposed to more than 50 persistent chemicals and pollutants in the air, soil, and water.
While the overall exposure levels are in line with the European average, the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), cadmium, lead, and mercury in the environment poses significant health risks.
The findings, presented on Wednesday by the Public Service Scientific Institute (ISSeP) and Wallonia’s Minister of Health and Environment, Yves Coppieters, underscore the need for greater monitoring and policy interventions to reduce exposure to hazardous substances.
Biomonitoring Study Unveils Alarming Trends
The Walloon study assessed exposure to pollutants by analyzing urine and blood samples from residents. Out of 62 biomarkers studied, 52 were detected, with 47 reaching reference values high enough to raise health concerns.
“The exposure levels detected in Wallonia are generally similar to those found in other European countries, or even lower for substances that have faced recent restrictions in Belgium or Europe,” said ISSeP project leader Aline Jacques.
However, she warned that health risks could not be ruled out, particularly concerning the presence of lead and mercury in the blood of some residents.
Children and Older Adults at Higher Risk
The study revealed that children are particularly vulnerable to exposure to metals, pesticides, and bisphenols, while older adults are more affected by persistent organic pollutants (PCBs, organochlorine pesticides, and PFAS) and certain heavy metals such as lead and cadmium.
“Exceeding the health reference values is also observed for cadmium and PFAS,” Jacques noted. “For substances that tend to accumulate in the body, older adults face higher risks.”
Given the study’s findings, Jacques recommended long-term monitoring and proactive measures to limit exposure to these pollutants.
PFAS Present in 31% of Pesticides Used in Wallonia
PFAS, often referred to as “forever pollutants” due to their inability to degrade easily, were found to be a widespread contaminant in the region.
Notably, 31% of pesticides used in Wallonia contain PFAS, raising concerns about their long-term impact on human health and the environment.
Minister Coppieters acknowledged the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the need for increased transparency and regular monitoring. “This is not just a Walloon phenomenon—we are in the European average—but that does not mean we should be complacent,” he stated.
While prevention, education, and awareness campaigns are crucial, Coppieters argued that stronger regulatory actions are necessary. “Of the hundred pesticides used, 31 contain PFAS. We need the courage to ban them,” he asserted.
Call for Stronger Policy Action
The minister underscored the need for discussions at the interministerial Health or Environment conference to address the issue.
“My position is to adopt a precautionary principle. We need to act based on documented risks of cancers and neurodegenerative diseases linked to these substances,” he stressed.
The study’s findings are expected to prompt further debate on stricter environmental policies and regulations, as Wallonia seeks to mitigate the health risks posed by persistent chemical exposure.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
