PFAS: A Growing Concern for the Environment and Human Health

What are PFAS and Why Are They a Concern?

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a wide range of industrial and consumer products since the 1940s. These chemicals are highly resistant to heat, water, and oil, making them useful in a variety of applications, including:

• Nonstick cookware
• Waterproof clothing
• Firefighting foam
• Industrial cleaning agents

However, PFAS have also been found to be highly persistent in the environment and can accumulate in the bodies of humans and animals. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to a variety of health problems, including:

• Cancer
• Birth defects
• Immune system problems
• Developmental delays

What Can You Do to Protect Yourself from PFAS?

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your exposure to PFAS, including:

• Avoid using nonstick cookware and opt for cast iron or ceramic cookware instead.
• Choose waterproof clothing that is not treated with PFAS.
• Use natural cleaning products instead of industrial cleaning agents.
• Filter your drinking water with a reverse osmosis system.
• Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which can help to protect against the effects of PFAS.

What is Being Done to Address the PFAS Problem?

The government is taking steps to address the PFAS problem, including:

• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set health advisory levels for PFAS in drinking water.
• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is working to reduce PFAS levels in food.
• The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is working to ban PFAS from consumer products.

In addition, a number of lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers of PFAS, including DuPont and 3M. These lawsuits allege that the manufacturers knew about the dangers of PFAS but failed to warn consumers.