The International Conference “PFAS – Challenges and Scientific Perspectives in Human Health Risk Assessment” took place from October 8-10, 2025, in Berlin, Germany, both in-person and online. Organized by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), the event brought together scientists and risk assessors to discuss the challenges and advances in assessing human health risks from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Key topics included analytical methods, toxicokinetics, toxicity, and new assessment methodologies. The conference gathered leading international experts to exchange knowledge on PFAS toxicology, exposure pathways, analytical methods, and New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) in human health risk assessment.

During the poster session, Iacopo Megna from Azienda Ospedaliera Nazionale SS Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo presented “PFAS Exposure in Alessandria (Italy): Environmental Context, Population-Based Assessment, and Method Validation in the SCENARIOS Project”, illustrating two pilot studies conducted in Alessandria, Piedmont (Italy). The work focused on assessing population exposure to PFAS and on validating innovative and cost-effective approaches for environmental and biological monitoring. The study involved residents stratified by gender, age, and proximity to the industrial area, with the collection of biological samples and detailed questionnaires exploring personal, occupational, dietary, and environmental determinants of exposure.

The activities of SCENARIOS and the work conducted to date have generated strong interest, particularly regarding the contribution of a hospital-based research team that, through the support of the Department of Integrated Research and Innovation Activities (DAIRI) and in collaboration with the Coordinator of the Scenarios project Prof. Francesco Dondero, has been able to carry out a large-scale and innovative population study, with the active involvement of local municipal administrations.