POPs linked to higher blood pressure in post-surgery teens

Researchers at the Keck School of Medicine at USC have discovered that persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are linked to higher blood pressure in teenagers who have had weight-loss surgery. POPs are toxic chemicals often found in food and stored in body fat. The study, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, indicates that these pollutants can interfere with the positive effects of bariatric surgery, which is intended to improve weight and metabolic health. They appear to disrupt how the body deals with fats, which may lead to lasting high blood pressure. Shudi Pan, leading the study, explained that while bariatric surgery is effective for severe obesity, it can release stored POPs into the bloodstream. Despite being restricted for over 20 years in many countries, POPs continue to be a global health concern due to their persistent nature in the environment. The research examined data from 57 adolescents who participated in a bariatric surgery program called Teen-LABS. The researchers looked at POP levels before surgery and monitored blood pressure changes six months and five years afterward. They found that exposure to POP mixtures was associated with increased systolic blood pressure five years post-surgery. The team used advanced techniques to study how these pollutants affect body fat and blood pressure regulation, particularly focusing on pathways involving prostaglandins, which are known to influence blood pressure. Although the study had a small sample size, researchers emphasized the need for further investigation into how POPs impact blood pressure, especially in young people. High blood pressure in teens can raise the risk of cardiovascular diseases later in life, highlighting the importance of understanding these environmental factors.