"Study Links C8, Changes in Puberty Age"

"PARKERSBURG, W.Va. -- Mid-Ohio Valley teenagers who were exposed to DuPont Co.'s C8 pollution experienced a four- to six-month delay in puberty, according to a new study that adds to the growing concerns about potential health effects of chemicals that have been widely used in nonstick and stain-resistant products.

Members of the C8 Science Panel based their latest report on data comparing blood levels of C8 and a related chemical called PFOS in 6,000 boys and girls with information about their hormone levels and when girls began menstrual cycles.

The three-scientist team found boys with the higher levels of PFOS and girls with a higher level of both chemicals hit puberty later."

Ken Ward Jr. reports for the Charleston Gazette September 30, 2010.