Adolescents exposed to toxic “forever chemicals” may be more likely to regain weight lost after bariatric surgery, a new study has found.

The risk of such gains, which can undermine the procedure’s success and cause long-term health issues, was higher in patients who had elevated levels of the compounds prior to the surgery, scientists found in the study, published on Thursday in Obesity.

These so-called forever chemicals, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are notorious for their ability to persist in both the human body and the environment.

Linked to numerous cancers and serious health conditions, PFAS are present in certain firefighting foams and a variety of household items, including nonstick pans, cosmetics and waterproof apparel.

Bariatric surgery, a procedure that a

See Full Page