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Abstract Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are artificial chemicals in diverse consumer and industrial goods. They are known for their enduring presence in the environment and the potential risks they pose to human health. This meta-analysis scrutinizes the sources, occurrence, fate, exposure pathways, and regulatory frameworks of PFAS globally, spanning 2021 to 2024. Through a comprehensive review of literature and regulatory documents, this study integrates the evolving trends and prevailing concerns and identifies research gaps. The analysis also reveals a need for a more regulatory landscape characterized by diverse approaches across different regions, with variations in standards, monitoring protocols, and remediation strategies. Despite concerted efforts to mitigate PFAS contamination, significant challenges persist, including regulatory inconsistencies, limited data availability, and emerging PFAS variants not covered by existing regulations. Sources of PFAS contamination encompass a broad spectrum of industrial activities, consumer products, and legacy pollution, with emerging evidence highlighting the role of atmospheric transport in global dispersion. Moreover, PFAS persistence in the environment and their bioaccumulative nature portray the urgency of understanding fate and transport mechanisms across various environmental compartments. Exposure pathways to PFAS exhibit multifaceted routes with humans, animals, invertebrates, and biota. Furthermore, disparities in exposure patterns are evident across different geographic regions and demographic groups, accentuating the need for targeted interventions and risk mitigation strategies. This meta-analysis identifies critical research needs, including enhanced surveillance programs, standardized methodologies, and interdisciplinary approaches to address PFAS contamination’s complexities comprehensively. This study provides a holistic overview of PFAS regulatory frameworks, sources, occurrence, fate, and exposure around the globe, highlighting evolving trends, persistent concerns, and crucial knowledge gaps. By synthesizing current knowledge and identifying research priorities, this study aims to inform policy development, regulatory enforcement, and scientific endeavors to address the challenges posed by PFAS contamination effectively.
Alam et al. (Wed,) studied this question.