Characterizing per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure in petrochemical workers: Insights from paired blood and urine samples

Per - and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are emerging contaminants known for their environmental persistence and adverse health effects. However, limited data exist regarding PFAS exposure in non-fluorochemical occupational groups, such as petrochemical workers. This study aimed to assess PFAS exposure levels (2 emerging and 18 legacy compounds) by analyzing paired blood and urine samples collected from 60 petrochemical workers. The results showed that blood ∑PFAS concentration ranged from 8.10 to 117 ng/mL, with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA; median: 14.2 ng/mL) being the prevalent compound. In urine, ∑PFAS levels ranged from 0.797 and 105 ng/mL, with perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA; median: 4.67 ng/mL) emerging as the dominant compound. Blood ∑PFAS concentrations were significantly higher than those in urine, however, no significant correlations were observed between the two matrices in paired samples. In stratified analysis based on sociodemographic characteristics, blood ∑PFAS concentrations were higher among male workers, older individuals (aged 31–35 years), and worker with longer years of service. In contrast, urinary ∑PFAS concentrations appeared less sensitive to these variables. Compared with previously studied populations, petrochemical workers exhibited intermediate PFAS exposure levels, exceeding those of the general public but remaining considerably lower than those of highly exposed fluoropolymer production cohorts. • This study first characterizes PFAS exposure in petrochemical workers using paired blood and urine samples. • The dominant PFAS profiles differed between blood and urine matrices. • PFAS exposure levels in petrochemical workers varied according to sex, age, and employment duration. • PFAS exposure levels in petrochemical workers were intermediate compared with previously reported populations.