Persistent chemicals or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a type of chemical that is difficult to break down and when they accumulate in the human body, various health problems can occur. PFAS were recently found to be present in most smartwatch straps.
Recently, scientists began studying 22 watch straps from brands such as Apple, Google, Samsung, several other well-known and unknown watch manufacturers. The study found that watch straps that were labeled as being made of a material such as fluoroelastomer contained PFAS. More specifically, it was a mixture of PFAS with fluoropolymer (PFHxA).
However, research on PFAS and PFHxA is still in its early stages and there is not much data to determine whether they really cause harm to users. According to this initial study, watch straps with such materials may not be at all dangerous or may even contribute to cancer, kidney failure and various other health problems.
Due to the lack of solid evidence due to the lack of many studies, consumers are advised to avoid using watch straps with fluoroelastomer material. Most watch straps in Malaysia that contain this deadly chemical are from Samsung and Apple. Apart from watch straps, paper straws are also said to contain the same harmful substance.