EMF: INVISIBLE EXPOSURES, VISIBLE EFFECTS

Electromagnetic fields and the Future of Hormone Health

By Dr. Angela Mazza

As a physician focused on hormones, resilience, and longevity, I am increasingly asked about electromagnetic fields—commonly called EMFs—and how they may affect our health. This is a complex and often controversial topic, but I think it deserves careful consideration, particularly when it comes to long-term endocrine balance.

What Are EMFs?

EMFs are invisible areas of energy, sometimes described as radiation, that are produced by electricity. They are part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Importantly, the fields we are talking about here are non-ionizing, meaning they do not carry enough energy to break molecular bonds or directly damage DNA the way X-rays or CT scans can. Everyday EMF exposures come from sources such as:

·        Cell phones and smartphones

·        Wi-Fi routers

·        Bluetooth devices

·        Power lines and electrical wiring

These exposures are constant, low-level, and increasingly unavoidable in our modern world. By contrast, pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs)—the kind used in clinical or therapeutic contexts—are highly controlled. For example, my colleague Dr. Robert Bard incorporates PEMF devices that deliver signals at specific frequencies and intensities designed to stimulate healing and recovery. That is very different from the continuous, background exposures of daily life.

Why I Care as a Hormone Specialist

My lens is always through the endocrine system. Hormones are exquisitely sensitive messengers, regulating everything from metabolism to mood, reproduction, and sleep. Emerging evidence suggests EMF exposure could influence:

1.     Melatonin and sleep rhythms – Several studies have shown that EMFs may reduce nocturnal melatonin production, which is critical for sleep and circadian regulation . Lower melatonin levels have also been linked to increased oxidative stress.

2.     HPA-axis function – The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis orchestrates our stress response. Some animal studies suggest EMFs can dysregulate cortisol rhythms, though human evidence remains mixed .

3.     Oxidative stress and free radicals – A growing body of research indicates EMFs may promote oxidative stress, a mechanism relevant to aging, inflammation, and hormone balance .

From my perspective, even if the data are not definitive, the fact that exposure is so widespread—and cumulative over decades—warrants serious study.

Where the Science Stands

To be transparent, the human data are not conclusive. Some large epidemiologic studies have found no strong associations between EMFs and cancer or fertility issues, while smaller studies have raised concerns about sleep disturbances, sperm quality, and subtle neurologic changes . One challenge is that technologies evolve so quickly that long-term data often lag behind real-world exposure.

What we do know is that dose matters. Proximity, duration, and cumulative load all influence exposure. A cell phone against the ear for hours a day is very different from sitting a few feet away from a Wi-Fi router. Children may also be more vulnerable due to thinner skulls and developing systems.

Practical Risk Reduction

While we wait for stronger long-term studies, I advise my patients on a few simple, low-cost ways to reduce exposure without compromising modern life:

·        Use speakerphone or earbuds instead of holding a phone directly to the head.

·        Keep devices off the body—avoid storing phones in pockets or bras.

·        Turn Wi-Fi off at night or keep routers away from sleeping areas.

·        Limit unnecessary Bluetooth devices when not in use.

None of these require fear, just thoughtful choices to minimize unnecessary exposure.

The Question of Mitigation Devices

Many companies now market EMF “shielding” or “harmonizing” devices. One example is Aires Tech, which claims to reduce the biological impact of EMFs through structured fields. While intriguing, independent evidence is limited. At this stage, I cannot fully recommend these devices without more rigorous testing. Still, I am open to exploring whether such tools, if studied in well-designed trials, could play a role.

 

A Path Forward: Research and Collaboration

This is where I see an opportunity for integrative collaboration. What if we designed a pilot study that measured:

·        Baseline EMF exposures (from personal monitors or environmental assessments)

·        Melatonin and cortisol rhythms across day and night

·        Markers of oxidative stress

·        Sleep quality, measured both subjectively and with wearable devices

We could then introduce a simple intervention—perhaps EMF reduction strategies, or even testing a mitigation device—and track whether meaningful changes occur. Such work would help move this conversation from speculation to evidence.

Final Thoughts

As an endocrinologist, I do not view EMFs as an emergency, but I do see them as an under-recognized variable in our overall health equation. We live in an environment saturated with invisible signals, and while the technology itself is here to stay, we can still ask critical questions about safety and long-term adaptation.

Just as we learned over decades about the effects of diet, smoking, or environmental toxins, EMFs deserve the same scientific curiosity. For me, the most compelling lens is hormone health: sleep, stress, circadian rhythms, and oxidative balance.

In the meantime, I encourage patients to take small, sensible steps to reduce exposure while staying informed as science evolves. The answers will not come overnight, but by asking the right questions now, we can protect both present health and future resilience.

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References

1.     Burch JB, Reif JS, Yost MG. Geomagnetic disturbances are associated with reduced nocturnal excretion of a melatonin metabolite in humans. Neurosci Lett. 1999;266(3):209-212.

2.     Shahin S, Singh SP, Chaturvedi CM. 2.45-GHz microwave irradiation adversely affects reproductive function in male mouse through HPA axis. Prog Biophys Mol Biol. 2017;131:257-263.

3.     Yakymenko I, Sidorik E, Kyrylenko S, Chekhun V. Long-term exposure to microwave radiation provokes cancer growth: evidences from animal studies. Exp Oncol. 2011;33(2):62-70.

4.     Röösli M, Frei P, Mohler E, Hug K. Systematic review on the health effects of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields from mobile phone base stations. Bull World Health Organ. 2010;88(12):887-896.

5.     Adams JA, Galloway TS, Mondal D, Esteves SC, Mathews F. Effect of mobile telephones on sperm quality: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Environ Int. 2014;70:106-112.

 

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PART 2:

Environmental Frequencies: An Invisible Problem
By Dr. Robert L. Bard

We live inside a sea of signals. Most are harmless background noise—useful, convenient, often life-changing. But there is an invisible problem here worth naming: the strength and frequency of those signals matter. As a diagnostic imaging specialist, I spend my days translating invisible waves into visible truth. That experience gives me a unique perspective on how frequency and intensity can mean the difference between healing and harm.

Diagnostic tools themselves illustrate this clearly. Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound to create real-time images of soft tissue; it is mechanical energy, safe when used correctly, and exquisitely useful for detecting structure and blood flow. MRI, by contrast, relies on very strong magnetic fields and carefully tuned radiofrequency pulses to map anatomy and physiology. Both are non-ionizing and clinically indispensable — yet both remind us that invisible energy, when controlled and harnessed, becomes information and healing.

Now look at the environment: today’s technologies emit continuous or intermittent electromagnetic energy at a wide span of frequencies. Cell phones and Wi-Fi operate in radiofrequency bands; smart devices, power infrastructure, and other sources add layers of exposure. The critical variables are not the label—“EMF” or “PEMF”—but the frequency, amplitude, duty cycle, and proximity. Therapeutic PEMF devices intentionally deliver pulsed signals at specific frequencies and dosages to stimulate biological responses. That controlled delivery is fundamentally different from ubiquitous, uncontrolled background exposures.

The distinction becomes starker when we consider directed-energy technology. Governments and militaries have developed devices that use concentrated electromagnetic or microwave energy for nonlethal crowd control or as tactical weapons. Those systems demonstrate, bluntly, that electromagnetic energy can be engineered to produce physiological effects. The difference between a clinical PEMF unit and a high-power directed-energy device is one of magnitude, focus, and intent — but the physics are related.

That reality calls for humility and prudence. In the clinic we control dose, duration, and targeting. In daily life, individuals often cannot. My concern — shared by many clinicians — is cumulative, chronic exposure and its potential subtle effects on sleep, inflammation, and systemic homeostasis. We need better monitoring, clearer exposure metrics, and translational research that links measurable signal environments to meaningful biological endpoints.

Practically, this means we should measure before we hypothesize. Environmental assessments, careful dosimetry, and integration with clinical biomarkers will allow us to separate signal from noise. As an imaging physician, I champion technologies that visualize the invisible. Now it’s time to apply that same rigor to the invisible signals that surround us — not to alarm, but to inform, mitigate, and responsibly innovate.

 

THE THYROID IN FOCUS (Spring 2025 podcast review)

Dr. Angela Mazza Brings Clarity to a Misunderstood Gland

From the Spring 2025 recording of the LEVELS podcast with Mike Haney

Few glands in the body spark as much confusion—and misinformation—as the thyroid. Sitting quietly in the neck, this butterfly-shaped organ influences nearly every cell through the hormones it produces. When it falters, the consequences ripple across metabolism, energy, mood, and long-term health. In a Spring 2025 conversation on the LEVELS podcast, integrative endocrinologist Dr. Angela Mazza explored this complexity with host Mike Haney. The discussion traced her journey into thyroid medicine, unpacked the physiology and testing of thyroid function, and outlined an integrative framework that blends conventional endocrinology with functional approaches.

 

 

A Career Rooted in Hormones and Whole-Person Care

Dr. Mazza entered endocrinology through a personal connection: diabetes runs in her family. But as her career unfolded, she found herself increasingly drawn to thyroid medicine. Early in practice, she became the physician handling ultrasounds and biopsies, naturally accumulating a large thyroid patient base. What she discovered disturbed her—patients were being missed, mismanaged, or left dissatisfied.

This realization propelled her toward integrative endocrinology. By founding the Metabolic Center for Wellness, Dr. Mazza committed to merging traditional hormone science with functional insights into nutrition, gut health, stress, and lifestyle. Her philosophy is not about fixing numbers on a lab sheet; it is about helping people feel well now while preserving health decades down the road.

Why the Thyroid Matters

The thyroid produces hormones—primarily T4, which is converted into the active T3—that regulate metabolism at the cellular level. As Dr. Mazza explained, metabolism is not simply burning calories; it is the sum of thousands of chemical reactions occurring every second. When thyroid hormone levels tilt too high or too low, the imbalance reverberates through the cardiovascular, skeletal, neurological, and immune systems.

She describes the thyroid as the body’s thermostat: a regulator that sets the tone for countless other hormonal and metabolic processes. Dysfunction can therefore be both a cause and a consequence of disturbances elsewhere in the body.

The Two Extremes: Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism

Hyperthyroidism, often triggered by Graves’ disease, places the body in a hypermetabolic state. Patients may feel anxious, shaky, or plagued by palpitations, sleep disruption, and gastrointestinal changes. Contrary to popular belief, weight loss is not inevitable; stress-driven cortisol surges can foster insulin resistance and paradoxical weight gain. Eye complications—from lid retraction to vision-threatening inflammation—can make the disease especially disruptive.

Treatment begins with stabilizing symptoms, usually through beta-blockers, and then choosing among anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery. Yet Dr. Mazza’s integrative practice often allows her patients to avoid the latter two irreversible options. Stress management, gut health support, and antioxidant therapy form part of her toolkit, enabling many patients to discontinue medication over time.

On the opposite side lies hypothyroidism, most commonly associated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Its symptoms tend to creep in gradually—fatigue, brain fog, constipation, mood changes, menstrual irregularities, high cholesterol, and visible signs such as dry skin and hair loss. Diagnosing hypothyroidism requires more than a single blood test. While the screening marker TSH is valuable, Dr. Mazza stresses the importance of looking at free T4, free T3, antibody profiles, and sometimes reverse T3. She also integrates nutrient testing, since iron, selenium, magnesium, and iodine deficiencies can mimic or exacerbate thyroid dysfunction.

Beyond TSH: A More Complete Picture

The conventional reliance on TSH alone as the diagnostic gold standard is, in Dr. Mazza’s view, limiting. TSH is an indirect measure reflecting brain-thyroid feedback loops. Optimal levels vary among individuals and may even shift with age. Some patients present with normal TSH but clear hypothyroid symptoms—a scenario where examining circulating hormone levels, antibodies, and nutrient status becomes essential.

She also defends the value of reverse T3 testing, once dismissed in training as irrelevant except in hospitalized patients. Elevated reverse T3, she notes, may indicate cellular stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, or overtreatment with T4-only therapy. For patients on thyroid replacement, this marker can reveal whether the therapy itself is inadvertently counterproductive.

The Role of Imaging

One of Dr. Mazza’s clinical hallmarks is her use of ultrasound imaging. While blood tests reveal biochemical function, ultrasound shows physical changes in the gland. With real-time visualization, she can distinguish between Graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s, and other thyroiditis patterns, or detect nodules that warrant closer scrutiny.

Nodules are remarkably common—up to half of adults harbor them, though the vast majority are benign. Size, composition, vascularity, and the presence of microcalcifications guide biopsy decisions. Even benign nodules, however, may cause cosmetic or mechanical problems, from visible neck swelling to difficulty swallowing.

Innovation in Treatment: Radiofrequency Ablation

Traditional surgical removal of nodules often creates more problems than it solves. Without a thyroid, patients face lifelong medication challenges, and not everyone converts synthetic T4 to active T3 efficiently. To address this gap, Dr. Mazza has championed radiofrequency ablation (RFA)—a minimally invasive office procedure that uses targeted energy to shrink nodules by up to 70% within months.

Patients remain awake, their vocal cords monitored in real time to avoid nerve damage. Compared with surgery, RFA preserves thyroid tissue, minimizes recovery time, and allows the gland to continue functioning. In cases of small, slow-growing thyroid cancers such as papillary microcarcinomas, RFA is emerging as an attractive alternative to both surgery and passive surveillance.

Personalization in Hormone Replacement

For patients who lose thyroid function entirely, hormone replacement therapy becomes necessary. The conventional approach relies on levothyroxine (T4 alone). Yet genetic variations mean roughly 15% of people cannot adequately convert T4 to T3. These individuals often experience persistent fatigue, mood issues, or metabolic challenges despite “normal” labs.

Here, combination therapy—whether through synthetic T3 plus T4 or natural desiccated thyroid extract—can restore quality of life. Dr. Mazza points out that historically, thyroid extracts containing both hormones were standard until synthetic T4 took over mid-20th century. Now, the pendulum is swinging back toward individualized regimens tailored to patient response.

Hormones in Context: Women’s Health, Adrenals, and More

Thyroid function never exists in isolation. Adrenal health, sex hormones, and systemic inflammation can all alter thyroid balance. For women in perimenopause and menopause, shifts in estrogen and progesterone profoundly interact with thyroid physiology, complicating both diagnosis and management.

Dr. Mazza emphasizes that addressing thyroid health may require parallel attention to cortisol rhythms, reproductive hormone transitions, or insulin resistance. Her philosophy reflects the broader systems biology approach increasingly recognized in modern medicine: no gland or organ operates alone.

Tackling Misinformation and Myths

Social media and online forums abound with thyroid advice—much of it misguided. Among the most harmful myths Dr. Mazza counters are:

·        The “temperature method”: once popularized as Wilson’s Syndrome, it promoted titrating thyroid replacement based solely on body temperature. Patients often ended up dangerously hyperthyroid.

·        The “magic weight loss cure”: while thyroid dysfunction influences metabolism, hormone replacement alone rarely produces dramatic weight changes. Lifestyle, insulin sensitivity, sleep, and stress remain central.

·        The “subclinical” label: patients with symptoms and borderline labs are sometimes dismissed as having “subclinical hypothyroidism,” implying no intervention is needed. Dr. Mazza argues this ignores lived experience and the progression of autoimmune thyroid disease.

Her corrective is both practical and empowering: pair careful laboratory and imaging evaluation with open acknowledgment of patient symptoms.

Lifestyle, Nutrition, and Prevention

If there is a theme woven through Dr. Mazza’s teaching, it is agency. Patients are not powerless against thyroid dysfunction. Lifestyle choices can profoundly influence resilience and outcomes:

·        Sleep: A non-negotiable seven to nine hours stabilizes cortisol rhythms and supports thyroid function.

·        Stress management: Chronic stress distorts cortisol curves, undermining thyroid balance. Techniques that calm the nervous system are protective.

·        Nutrition: Micronutrients such as selenium, iodine, zinc, and iron provide the raw materials for thyroid hormone synthesis. Two Brazil nuts a day can supply selenium needs; pumpkin seeds add zinc. Whole, minimally processed foods protect against inflammatory triggers.

·        Detoxification: From household chemicals to plastics, endocrine disruptors are unavoidable. Supporting the body’s natural detox pathways—hydration, antioxidants, and even daily sweating—can lighten the load.

·        Movement: Exercise not only boosts metabolism but also improves insulin sensitivity, an underappreciated determinant of thyroid health.

These habits, she stresses, are not elaborate “protocols” but steady, sustainable practices that reinforce thyroid stability and long-term well-being.

Looking Ahead

Dr. Mazza’s voice on the LEVELS podcast carried both authority and humility. She blends rigorous endocrinology training with the openness of integrative medicine, recognizing that no single perspective holds all the answers. Her vision of thyroid care is deeply personalized, evidence-based, and compassionate, rooted in the conviction that patients deserve more than a prescription slip or a dismissive “your labs look fine.”

By educating audiences on the nuance of thyroid physiology and the promise of individualized care, she is helping dismantle misconceptions that have long hindered patients. From radiofrequency ablation to personalized hormone replacement, her clinical work demonstrates how innovation and empathy can coexist.

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Conclusion

The thyroid may be small, but its influence is vast. As Dr. Angela Mazza made clear in her 2025 conversation with Mike Haney, caring for this gland requires seeing the bigger picture: hormones in context, labs in conjunction with symptoms, and treatment integrated with lifestyle.

Her message is both cautionary and hopeful. Cautionary, because oversimplification—whether by clinicians or online influencers—risks leaving patients untreated or mistreated. Hopeful, because with the right blend of science, integrative strategies, and patient empowerment, thyroid disorders can be managed, and often improved, without compromising quality of life.

In the end, Dr. Mazza’s vision of thyroid care is less about chasing numbers and more about fostering resilience. It is an approach that reminds us that medicine is not just about glands and hormones—it is about people, their stories, and their capacity to thrive when science meets compassion.

 

WHAT IS PFAS or "FOREVER CHEMICALS"?

Written by: Lennard M. Goetze, Ed.D / Leslie Valle-Montoya, MD / Carol Kelujian, PhD

Introduction

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—better known as the “forever chemicals”—represent one of the most pervasive environmental health challenges of our time. Their extraordinary stability and resistance to degradation have allowed them to accumulate in water, food, consumer goods, and even human tissue. Beyond their persistence, mounting research reveals profound implications for human health. Dr. Angela Mazza, whose clinical work has long focused on endocrine balance and the cascading impact of hormonal disruption, underscores the concern that PFAS are not simply industrial byproducts but endocrine-active agents capable of altering essential physiological systems.

 

Studies now link PFAS exposure with female reproductive dysfunction, including later onset of menarche, irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles, earlier age of menopause, and disrupted levels of sex hormones (1,2). These disruptions extend further to thyroid dysfunction, metabolic disorders, adrenal disturbances, and compromised immune responses, painting PFAS as silent yet powerful disruptors of multiple regulatory networks. Such findings emphasize the urgency of addressing PFAS not only as chemical pollutants but as contributors to the growing burden of chronic hormonal and systemic disorders across populations.

 

Widespread Use

PFAS have been applied in a wide variety of industries since the 1940s. They are commonly found in nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, stain-resistant carpets, greaseproof food packaging, cosmetics, and firefighting foams (3). Because of their versatility, PFAS have spread into nearly every corner of modern consumer life. Industrial sites, airports, and military bases where firefighting foams were used heavily are now recognized as hotspots of environmental contamination (4).

Pathways of Exposure

Human exposure to PFAS occurs through several everyday routes:

1. Drinking water – Contamination from industrial runoff, firefighting foam, and wastewater treatment discharges is a leading source (4).

2. Food – PFAS accumulate in the tissues of fish, livestock, and crops grown in contaminated soil or irrigated with polluted water. Packaging materials treated with PFAS also contribute (3).

3.  Consumer products – Items like nonstick pans, dental floss, waterproof sprays, and cosmetics can be direct exposure sources (2).

4. Occupational settings – Firefighters, chemical plant workers, and textile manufacturers are at elevated risk due to frequent contact with PFAS-laden products (5).

    

PFAS and Metabolic Disorders: An Endocrinology Perspective

From the standpoint of endocrinology, one of the most concerning dimensions of PFAS exposure lies in its association with metabolic disorders. Research increasingly links these chemicals to conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (6,7). These disorders, once thought to be driven largely by lifestyle factors, now appear to be influenced by environmental exposures that interfere with hormonal and metabolic pathways.

 

Endocrinologists are uniquely positioned to identify and monitor these effects. In clinical practice, blood tests are used to screen for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in individuals suspected of exposure or presenting with unexplained metabolic dysfunction. The gold standard method—liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)—enables highly sensitive detection of PFAS in serum, providing valuable data that can guide both diagnosis and ongoing management (8).

 

Dr. Mazza, who has treated hundreds of patients with complex endocrine and metabolic imbalances, emphasizes the growing trend she sees in her practice:

“More and more patients are coming to me with unusual and difficult-to-explain metabolic abnormalities. When you begin to look closer, many of these cases align with what we now understand about PFAS exposure—obesity that doesn’t respond to standard interventions, unexplained fatty liver disease, and blood sugar regulation issues in otherwise low-risk individuals. It reinforces the need to view these ‘forever chemicals’ not only as environmental pollutants but as active drivers of endocrine dysfunction.”

This growing recognition from the endocrinology community underscores the need for routine PFAS testing in high-risk populations, particularly those presenting with atypical metabolic disorders. By pairing advanced detection methods with clinical vigilance, endocrinologists are playing a critical role in uncovering the hidden influence of PFAS on human health.

 

Why They Are “Forever”

The term “forever chemicals” highlights both their near indestructibility and their persistence within human bodies. Once absorbed, PFAS can accumulate in blood, liver, and other tissues, with half-lives in humans measured in years. Their presence has now been detected globally—in rainwater, soil, wildlife, and even in human breast milk (2,9). This enduring persistence underscores why PFAS represent not just an environmental issue, but a generational public health concern.

 

Conclusion

PFAS illustrate the paradox of human innovation: chemicals designed for convenience and industrial benefit have become global contaminants with long-term health risks. Their presence in water, food, consumer goods, and workplaces reflects both the complexity of modern life and the need for stricter regulation, safer alternatives, and proactive health monitoring. The endocrinology community’s growing recognition of PFAS’s metabolic, reproductive, and hormonal impacts marks an important step in shifting public health policy toward protecting future generations.

 

References

1.     Sunderland, E. M., Hu, X. C., Dassuncao, C., Tokranov, A. K., Wagner, C. C., & Allen, J. G. (2019). A review of the pathways of human exposure to PFAS and present understanding of health effects. Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, 29(2), 131–147.

2.     Yale Sustainability. (2023). Yale experts explain PFAS: forever chemicals. Retrieved from https://sustainability.yale.edu/explainers/yale-experts-explain-pfas-forever-chemicals

3.     U.S. FDA. (2023). Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/food/environmental-contaminants-food/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas

4.     World Health Organization. (2023). PFAS in drinking water. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/teams/environment-climate-change-and-health/water-sanitation-and-health/chemical-hazards-in-drinking-water/per-and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances

5.     EPA. (2024). Our current understanding of the human health and environmental risks of PFAS. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/pfas

6.     Liu, G., Dhana, K., Furtado, J. D., Rood, J., Zong, G., Liang, L., ... & Hu, F. B. (2018). Perfluoroalkyl substances and risk of type 2 diabetes: A prospective cohort study. Diabetologia, 61(5), 1319–1330.

7.     Verywell Health. (2023). PFAS exposure and fatty liver disease. Retrieved from https://www.verywellhealth.com/pfas-exposure-fatty-liver-disease-5270707

8.     U.S. CDC. (2022). National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals: Laboratory methods for PFAS testing. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/exposurereport/pfas

9.     The Guardian. (2025). Forever chemicals exposure linked to gene activity changes in firefighters. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/aug/15/forever-chemicals-pfas-exposure-gene-activity

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PART 2 — Seeing the Unseen: Ultrasound Evidence of PFAS in the Body

By Robert L. Bard, MD, Radiologist

INTRODUCTION

We have irrefutable laboratory proof that PFAS circulate in human blood; the question I answer in clinic is where—and how—they leave their mark. My approach pairs serum PFAS quantification (LC-MS/MS) with high-resolution, Doppler, elastography, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound to visualize the organ-level footprint of exposure. Ultrasound does not “see” a PFAS molecule; it reveals the structural and microvascular consequences PFAS are linked to—evidence patients and clinicians can track over time.

SUBDERMAL & DERMAL MAPPING (18–24 MHZ)

In exposed patients, high-frequency probes often demonstrate punctate hyperechoic micro-reflectors (“white specks”) within the superficial fat and along fascial planes, typically non-shadowing and clustered around small vessels. Power Doppler may show peri-lesional hyperemia, consistent with low-grade inflammatory response. I document these as a count per field and map their distribution for follow-up.

LIVER: STEATOSIS AND STIFFNESS—QUANTIFIED

Given PFAS associations with NAFLD and metabolic disruption, the liver is a prime target for imaging. I quantify:

· Attenuation coefficient (dB/cm/MHz) as a surrogate for fat burden (higher values indicate steatosis).

· Shear-wave elastography (kPa or m/s) to assess stiffness (fibrosis/inflammation).

· Hepatic Doppler indices (portal vein velocity; hepatic artery resistive index) to capture perfusion shifts.

In patients with elevated serum PFAS, I frequently record attenuation elevations consistent with fatty change and mild stiffness increments; when combined with labs and clinical risk, these provide a numerical baseline for intervention monitoring.

THYROID & ENDOCRINE TARGETS

PFAS-linked endocrine effects often coincide with heterogeneous, hypoechoic thyroid parenchyma, micro-nodularity, and increased vascularity on color Doppler. I grade vascularity (VI%) and shear-wave values of the gland to objectify change—particularly helpful when patients report menstrual irregularities, metabolic symptoms, or autoimmune markers.

LYMPHATIC/IMMUNE READOUTS

Cervical/axillary nodes may display cortical thickening with preserved hila and subtle stiffness changes on elastography—an imaging pattern compatible with reactive immune activity. I record cortex thickness (mm) and strain/shear metrics to trend immune engagement alongside PFAS titers.

MICROVASCULAR & PERFUSION (CEUS/DOPPLER)

When indicated, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) adds perfusion kinetics—time-to-peak, wash-in rate, area-under-curve—to flag microvascular dysfunction in liver or soft tissue beds. These quantitative curves frequently normalize as exposure is mitigated and metabolic control improves.

A PRACTICAL WORKFLOW

1.     Confirm exposure: serum PFAS panel via LC-MS/MS.

2.     Baseline multi-organ ultrasound: high-frequency skin/subcutis, thyroid, liver, targeted lymphatics.

3.     Quant sheet: attenuation, stiffness, Doppler/VI%, hyperechoic-foci count, CEUS kinetics.

4.     Re-scan at 3–6 months after exposure reduction or therapy to demonstrate directional change.

WHY THIS MATTERS

Patients deserve more than a lab number. Ultrasound supplies visual proof and actionable metrics of PFAS’ biological imprint—making risk tangible, guiding treatment, and validating recovery. In my practice, this imaging-plus-lab strategy turns an invisible toxicant into a trackable clinical target.

 

References

1.     Sunderland, E. M., et al. (2019). A review of the pathways of human exposure to PFASs and present understanding of health effects. Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, 29(2), 131–147.

2.     Liu, G., et al. (2018). Perfluoroalkyl substances and risk of type 2 diabetes: A prospective cohort study. Diabetologia, 61(5), 1319–1330.

3.     Hu, X. C., et al. (2016). Detection of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in U.S. drinking water linked to industrial sites, military fire training areas, and wastewater treatment plants. Environmental Science & Technology Letters, 3(10), 344–350.

 

EXCERPT FROM THE SOURCE

Every image tells a story—but it takes a master interpreter to translate it into action. The Eye Within is more than a chronicle of Dr. Robert Bard’s work; it is a study in the art of diagnostic interpretation. In an era where technology captures more data than ever, Dr. Bard demonstrates that true clinical value comes from the trained eye and the disciplined mind that sees beyond the image. His expertise in ultrasound interpretation transforms scans into predictive tools, guiding treatment and saving lives.

This book is a testament to technical mastery, clinical leadership, and the irreplaceable human capacity to discern meaning from patterns that machines alone cannot explain. The Eye Within reminds us that interpretation is not just a skill—it is the cornerstone of precision medicine.

DETOXIFICATION AND ENDOCRINE HEALTH

 Clearing the Path for Hormonal Balance, Metabolic Vitality, and Longevity

Written by: Angela Mazza, DO | Edited by: Lennard M. Goetze, Ed.D

INTRODUCTION

The human body is equipped with remarkable self-cleansing systems—primarily the liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, and lymphatic network—that work continuously to filter waste, neutralize harmful substances, and maintain internal balance. Yet, the demands placed on these systems have grown exponentially in the modern era. We are no longer dealing solely with natural metabolic byproducts; our bodies are now confronted with an unrelenting onslaught of toxins and toxicants that challenge our resilience and disrupt our endocrine health.

Part 1 – WHY WE NEED TO DETOX

Toxins, Toxicants, and the Hidden Drivers of Chronic Disease

Toxins are harmful substances produced within the body or by microorganisms, such as metabolic waste, inflammatory byproducts, or bacterial endotoxins from gut imbalances. In contrast, toxicants are man-made or environmental chemicals—pesticides, industrial solvents, plastics, synthetic fragrances, and airborne particulates—that we inhale, ingest, and absorb daily. Together, they represent a constant, low-level threat that may go unnoticed for years but quietly erodes the foundations of health.

These harmful agents are not merely nuisances. They can alter hormonal communication, inflame tissues, damage cellular structures, and impair detox pathways themselves. In endocrine health, the stakes are especially high. Persistent exposure to certain toxicants—known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)—can mimic or block hormone signals, leading to imbalances that set the stage for metabolic disorders, reproductive dysfunction, autoimmune disease, and cancer.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND LIFESTYLE SOURCES OF TOXIC BURDEN

Modern living exposes us to harmful compounds from all angles:

·   Air pollution from vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and indoor sources such as cleaning agents and off-gassing furniture.

·   Water contaminants including heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic), pharmaceutical residues, and agricultural runoff.

·   Pesticides and herbicides coating produce and entering the food chain.

·   Plastics and microplastics leaching bisphenols and phthalates into our drinks and meals.

·   Personal care products with parabens, synthetic fragrances, and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.

ILLNESS, INFLAMMATION, AND CANCER RISK

When toxins accumulate faster than the body can neutralize and eliminate them, a state of toxic overload arises. This burden drives chronic inflammation, a biological state linked to nearly every major degenerative disease. Inflammatory mediators disrupt hormonal feedback loops, interfere with insulin signaling, and impair thyroid function. Over time, prolonged immune activation from toxic stress can damage DNA, creating conditions for mutations and cancer development.

Research consistently links toxin exposure to increased risk of hormone-sensitive cancers—such as breast, prostate, and thyroid cancer—as well as metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. For the endocrine system, where delicate hormonal balance dictates everything from mood to metabolism, detoxification is not an optional “wellness trend,” but a critical health intervention.

Part 2 – An Endocrinologist's Perspective on Detoxification

From an endocrinologist’s standpoint, detoxification is inseparable from hormonal health, metabolic resilience, and healthy aging. I emphasize that detox strategies are not just about “flushing out toxins” but about supporting complex biochemical pathways that influence hormone clearance, receptor sensitivity, and cellular longevity.

1. Supporting Healthy Hormone Metabolism and Clearance

The liver plays a central role in breaking down and eliminating excess hormones such as estrogen, cortisol, and thyroid hormones. These processes—Phase I and Phase II detoxification—convert fat-soluble hormones into water-soluble forms for excretion. When functioning optimally, they help prevent estrogen dominance, a condition tied to PMS, fibroids, weight gain, and increased cancer risk. Clearing out hormonal metabolites also eases stress on endocrine feedback loops, preventing cascading imbalances.

2. Reducing Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical (EDC) Load

EDCs such as persistent organic pollutants, heavy metals, microplastics, and synthetic industrial chemicals can imitate or obstruct hormonal messages. Over time, these disrupt the delicate dance between hormones and their receptors. Detox strategies—ranging from optimizing bile flow to encouraging sweating and boosting antioxidant defenses—can reduce the body’s EDC burden, improving the precision and reliability of hormonal signaling.

3. Improving Insulin Sensitivity and Metabolic Flexibility

Chronic toxin exposure fosters oxidative stress, low-grade inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction—three key drivers of insulin resistance. When detoxification restores micronutrient balance, reduces oxidative load, and supports mitochondrial repair, the result is better glucose control, energy production, and fat metabolism. This is crucial for preventing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

4. Protecting Mitochondria and Slowing Cellular Aging

Every cell relies on mitochondria for energy. Toxic metabolites and free radicals damage mitochondrial DNA, hastening cellular aging. Effective detoxification minimizes these assaults, preserving energy capacity and supporting tissue regeneration—cornerstones of longevity medicine.

5. Optimizing Thyroid Function

Heavy metals like mercury and cadmium, along with halogens such as bromine and fluoride, can block iodine uptake and interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis. Detoxifying these agents may improve both the production and conversion of thyroid hormones, boosting metabolic rate, mood, and overall vitality.

6. Resolving Inflammation and Modulating Immunity

Many toxins ignite chronic inflammatory responses that destabilize hormonal systems and accelerate disease progression. Detoxification—especially when it enhances antioxidant reserves such as glutathione—promotes inflammation resolution, tissue healing, and a balanced immune response.

7. Preparing the Body for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

For patients beginning HRT, detoxification clears receptor-blocking toxins, optimizes liver and gut hormone metabolism, and restores essential cofactors. This not only improves the therapy’s effectiveness but also reduces potential side effects from metabolite buildup.

8. Engaging the Full Detox Network

While the liver is often the star of detox discussions, Dr. Mazza underscores the importance of the gut, kidneys, skin, and lymphatic system in clearing toxins. Supporting these systems through hydration, fiber-rich nutrition, sweating, and lymphatic movement ensures more complete toxin elimination and prevents recirculation.

9. Enhancing Physiological Resilience

Reducing toxic load improves the body’s adaptability to stress—be it environmental, emotional, or metabolic. With stronger mitochondrial function, balanced immune activity, and stable hormonal signaling, patients are better equipped to maintain vitality in the face of modern stressors.

Conclusion – A Two-Part Approach to Endocrine Detox

Detoxification is far more than a seasonal cleanse or dietary fad—it is a foundational pillar of preventive medicine, particularly in the realm of endocrinology. Part 1 underscores the urgency: modern living bombards us with toxins and toxicants that fuel inflammation, hormonal disruption, and cancer risk. Part 2, guided by clinical insights, reveals that strategic detoxification can restore hormonal balance, improve metabolic performance, protect mitochondrial health, and extend healthspan.

In a world where environmental and lifestyle toxic exposure is unavoidable, a proactive, scientifically grounded detox plan is not merely beneficial—it is essential for maintaining hormonal health, metabolic vitality, and long-term wellness.

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SCANNING TOXINS BENEATH THE SKIN:

Ultrasound’s Role in Detecting Environmental Burden

Following Dr. Angela Mazza’s call for addressing toxic load in protecting hormonal and metabolic health, advanced imaging now offers a new frontier—visualizing toxins where they settle in the body. While most detox discussions focus on liver, kidney, and gut function, Dr. Robert Bard, a master specialist in diagnostic ultrasound, brings attention to the skin as a major excretory and storage organ for harmful substances.

Reviewing Dr. Robert Bard's Intradermal Scanning of Toxicant Effects

Using a high-resolution 18-mHz thyroid probe adapted for skin imaging, Dr. Bard can scan the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue in extraordinary detail. His findings reveal that environmental toxicants—such as arsenic, lead, mercury, chemotherapy residues, and industrial particulates—can lodge within skin layers, triggering inflammatory reactions, fibrosis, and eventual microcalcification.

On ultrasound, these deposits appear as tiny white specks scattered through the dermis, often in patterns distinct from normal skin texture. In the scans, healthy tissue presents as a smooth, uniform layer. In contrast, toxin-burdened skin displays irregular “bumpy” patterns with bright reflective spots—hallmarks of mineralized or particulate contamination. These findings can occur even in patients without visible rashes or lesions, revealing an invisible stage of toxic exposure.

Dr. Bard emphasizes that the skin, along with the GI tract, liver, and kidneys, is one of the body’s largest filtration systems. When toxins circulate in the blood, the skin can trap and hold them, particularly when other clearance pathways are overwhelmed. With advanced 3D volumetric imaging, clinicians can not only see these intradermal deposits but also measure their volume, offering a tangible metric of environmental exposure.

By combining endocrine insights on toxic burden with cutting-edge imaging, this approach creates an early-warning system—helping patients and clinicians take proactive detox measures before these silent invaders contribute to chronic disease.