PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are a group of synthetic chemicals that are used in many products and industrial processes. PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" because they are persistent in the environment and don't break down.
PFAS Exposure
Unfortunately, the widespread use of PFAS in producing numerous products and their ability to persist and accumulate in the environment means that most of us have likely been exposed to these chemicals. According to Pew Research, PFAS are present in the blood of 97% of Americans.
Since 1999, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified at least 12 different PFAS in blood serum. Notably, four of these PFAS were found in nearly all individuals tested in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
The EPA warns that people can be exposed to PFAS in several ways, primarily through contaminated food or water and products that contain these chemicals. Here are some common sources of PFAS exposure:
- Drinking water that has been contaminated with PFAS
- Firefighting foam
- Water and soil at landfills or disposal sites where PFAS are present
- Production facilities where PFAS are made or used
- Eating fish from PFAS-polluted waters or dairy products from livestock exposed to PFAS
- Packaging materials like fast food wrappers, pizza boxes, and microwave popcorn bags that contain PFAS
- Household products such as stain-resistant carpets, water-repellent clothing, and non-stick cookware
- Cosmetics, shampoo, and dental floss that may contain PFAS
- Biosolids such as certain fertilizers made from treated wastewater
Specific jobs, like firefighting or working in chemical manufacturing, can also lead to increased exposure to PFAS.
