According to the British newspaper Daily Mail, a study published in the journal Liver International indicates that frequent exposure to tetrachloroethylene (PCE) chemicals could significantly increase the risk of liver damage.

Notably, tetrachloroethylene (PCE) is present in many common household products such as dry cleaning solutions, degreasers, paint removers, ink, adhesives, shoe polish, and more.

The study, conducted by scientists from the University of Southern California, analyzed data from 1,614 adults between 2017 and 2020.

The researchers measured PCE levels in the blood of the participants and assessed the extent of liver damage.

At the end of the study, the scientists discovered that 81 participants had been exposed to PCE, and their blood contained a measurable amount of PCE. Those exposed to PCE had a three times higher risk of liver damage and liver fibrosis compared to those not exposed.

Dr. Brian Lee, a gastroenterologist and liver disease specialist at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, and the lead author of the study, explained: "When the body is exposed to PCE, the liver processes it and creates by-products, known as metabolites. These metabolites react with liver cells, breaking down fats in the cell membrane, causing a cascade of reactions like inflammation and scarring, leading to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer."

"Cirrhosis is one of the key indicators of liver diseases and the risk of death from liver diseases. The more severe the fibrosis, the higher the risk of death from liver disease," the expert added.

In addition to its impact on the liver, PCE has also been linked to the risk of cancer and various other serious health issues.

In 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued regulations to limit the use of tetrachloroethylene (PCE) – a chemical used in dry cleaning – and set a 10-year plan to phase it out. This decision was made after studies revealed that frequent exposure to PCE is associated with kidney disease, neurological effects, and an increased risk of several types of cancer, including bladder cancer and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as reported by U.S. health site Medical News Today.

Researchers hope that these findings will provide additional information about the causes of liver problems, helping experts develop appropriate screening strategies to identify early liver disease risks.

According to medical experts, liver diseases are rapidly increasing. What is even more concerning is that many people with liver disease are undiagnosed because the disease often has no clear symptoms in its early stages, or symptoms may be mistaken for less serious health issues.

To prevent liver disease early, experts recommend quitting unhealthy habits like smoking, drinking alcohol, and overusing medication, and adopting a healthy diet and exercise routine. Particularly, people should be cautious when using chemicals to reduce the risk of exposure to tetrachloroethylene (PCE).