Minireview of relationship between perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances and hypertension

The correlation between perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and hypertension remains inconsistent.We narrative reviewed the correlation between PFAS and hypertension in terms of the current status of PFAS contamination, existing studies, and potential mechanisms.The majority of studies reported a positive association between PFAS exposure and hypertension, though results vary considerably across studies.Potential mechanistic pathways include altered expression of nuclear receptors, oxidative stress, impaired renal sodium handling, and disturbances in thyroid hormone levels.Inconsistencies in the literature appear to stem from differences in PFAS compounds assessed, study designs, population characteristics, and outcome definitions.Given the predominance of cross-sectional studies and other methodological limitations, these findings should be interpreted as association rather than causation, highlighting the need for prospective studies to clarify the relationship.