High levels of toxic "eternal chemicals" found off the coast of Great Britain

In the Solent Strait in the south of Great Britain, researchers have found high levels of toxic "eternal chemicals." This was reported on May 19 by The Guardian newspaper.

"Scientists have found high levels of toxic polyfluorinated hydrocarbons, or 'eternal chemicals,' in soil, water and throughout the marine food chain in the Solent Strait in the UK, including in protected areas," the material says.

According to the publication, in some samples the pollution level was 13 times higher than the safe threshold for coastal waters. The samples were taken from the Solent Strait, which runs between the Isle of Wight and the mainland, being part of the English Channel.

"It is assumed that the chemicals entered the environment from sewage treatment plants, historic landfills and nearby military installations," writes The Guardian.

These chemicals are called "eternal" because they decompose poorly and, according to scientists, are associated with a number of diseases in humans and wild animals.

On March 21, Science Daily magazine reported on the effect of "eternal chemicals" on children's bones. This type of chemicals includes polyfluoroalkyl substances, synthetic compounds widely used in industry and everyday goods. According to the researchers, their exposure at an early age can negatively affect the formation of bone tissue in children and adolescents, especially in girls.