Where It Comes From
Production/use of PFAS‑treated textiles, paper/packaging, floor‑care products, firefighting foams, and industrial surfactants/coatings. [1]
How You Are Exposed
Drinking water near contaminated sites, indoor dust, food contact materials, and inhalation or skin contact at work. [1][2]
Why It Matters
PFAS can build up in people and are linked to higher cholesterol, immune effects (reduced vaccine response), liver/thyroid and developmental changes; some (e.g., PFOA) are linked to certain cancers. [1][3][4]
Who Is at Risk
Workers handling PFAS; communities near airports, military bases, manufacturers or landfills; pregnant people, infants/children; and those eating fish from contaminated waters. [1][2]
How to Lower Your Exposure
Test your water; use certified carbon or reverse‑osmosis filters; follow local advisories; choose fewer stain‑resistant products; wet‑dust/HEPA vacuum; and follow workplace protections/AFFF guidance. [1][2]
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls (PFAS). 2021. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp200.pdf
- [2]US EPA. PFAS Explained. 2024. https://www.epa.gov/pfas
- [3]NTP. Monograph on Immunotoxicity of PFOA and PFOS. 2016. https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/whatwestudy/assessments/noncancer/completed/pfoa
- [4]IARC. Evaluation of PFOA and PFOS (Press Release 264). 2023. https://www.iarc.who.int/news-events/iarc-monographs-evaluate-perfluorooctanoic-acid-pfoa-and-perfluorooctanesulfonic-acid-pfos/