Common Chemical Used To Clean Clothes Linked To Spike In Liver Disease

A new study from the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California reveals that exposure to tetrachloroethylene (PCE), a chemical commonly used in dry cleaning and various consumer products, significantly increases the risk of liver disease. The research, published in Liver International, found that adults exposed to PCE are three times more likely to develop significant liver fibrosis, a condition that can lead to liver cancer, liver failure, or death.

PCE is a colorless liquid used in dry cleaning, adhesives, spot cleaners, and stainless steel polish. People are mainly exposed to PCE through air and contaminated water. According to Keck Medicine, the study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and found that about 7% of the U.S. population had detectable levels of PCE in their blood. The study showed that greater exposure to PCE increased the likelihood of developing liver fibrosis.

Lead author Dr. Brian P. Lee emphasized the study's importance, stating, "The findings suggest that exposure to PCE may be the reason why one person develops liver disease while someone with the exact same health and demographic profile does not." The researchers also noted that people from higher-income households might be more at risk due to frequent use of dry cleaning services.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified PCE as a probable carcinogen and has initiated a 10-year phaseout of its use in dry cleaning. Despite these measures, PCE remains present in some applications and countries without similar regulations. Dr. Lee hopes that increased awareness of PCE exposure will lead to more screenings for liver fibrosis, potentially improving patient outcomes.