What are PFAS and What are the Health Risks?
What are PFAS? Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, otherwise known as “PFAS”, are man-made chemicals that include PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid) and PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate). These chemicals are also commonly described as POPs (persistent organic pollutants) or “forever chemicals” because the robust nature of their structure means they remain in the environment for over 1,000 years.
The first PFAS were invented in the 1930’s and were initially seen as a beneficial chemical, widely used in nonstick pans and waterproof coatings. PFAS was developed into a highly effective way of combating petroleum fires using fire-retardant foam. Now, PFAS are present in a wide range of products from oil-resistant food packaging to stain resistant household fabrics and corrosion resistant metals.
According to the EPA, POPs and PFAS chemicals are carcinogenic and harmful to human health. Some health effects are:
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Thyroid disease
- Developmental effects
- Cancer
- Kidney and liver damage