CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Artificial turf fields may look like a safe, low‑maintenance option, but new research raises serious red flags.

Some scientists say these fields carry “forever chemicals” — known as PFAS — that stick to skin during play. In one small study, players’ PFAS levels nearly doubled after games on artificial turf. On real grass? Those levels dropped.

Besides chemical risk, injury data adds fuel to the worry. In the NFL, most stadiums with synthetic turf show more injuries than those with grass. Even at lower levels, ankle and knee injuries are more frequent on turf in studies of high school and college athletes.

Still, experts say we don’t yet know for sure how much risk exists — the science isn’t settled. What is clear: Parents, teams and schools may need to weigh short-te

See Full Page