Smartwatches are becoming indispensable accessories all over the world and recently in the USA, one of the countries that buys smart devices the most. However, watch straps are becoming a worrying target in this North American country due to a chemical compound that is dangerous to health.
Watch straps contain high levels of PFAS, a compound that can harm the health of those wearing the accessories, according to a study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology Letters. Details about health concerns about smart watches…
Smartwatches are dangerous due to PFAS
The main brands that own smartwatches, such as Apple, Samsung, Fitbit and Google, use this substance, which can be harmful due to its chemical composition. This information came from a study conducted by the University of Notre Dame. The university did not say which watches with this substance were tested. It did not even disclose the amount of PFAS present. It only emphasised which manufacturers use this hazardous substance.
However, it turned out that the bracelets of the most expensive products worth more than $ 30 contain between 50 per cent and 90 per cent PFAS in their composition. The cheaper wristbands found in more entry-level smartwatches, for example, do not contain this chemical compound.
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The risk of PFAS is that it is absorbed by the wearer’s skin, causing the compound to enter the wearer’s bloodstream. During physical activities, when the watches are used the most, the danger is increased due to the mixing with sweat. But this has not yet been proven.
Since this compound is forever chemical, it is known to be difficult to eliminate and degrade both in the body and in the environment. So what do you think about this dangerous possibility about smartwatches? Share your comments!
