Where It Comes From
Past manufacturing and use in surface‑treatment formulations; aging of treated carpets, upholstery, and food packaging; breakdown to PFOS in air and the environment [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing indoor air/dust from treated items; contact with older stain‑resistant products; PFOS formed from this chemical in water and food from contaminated areas [1][2][3].
Why It Matters
PFAS persist and can build up in people; PFOS exposure is associated with immune effects, higher cholesterol, and developmental and liver effects; EPA now sets very low drinking‑water limits for PFOS [1][4][5].
Who Is at Risk
Workers making/using PFAS; families with older stain‑resistant carpets/furniture; people who are pregnant, infants, and children; communities near contaminated sites or water supplies [1][3][5].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Choose PFAS‑free products; reduce household dust with regular vacuuming and wet‑wiping; replace older stain‑resistant items if feasible; use certified water filters (activated carbon or reverse osmosis) and check local PFAS water testing; follow workplace protections [1][3][6].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls (PFAS). 2021. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp200.pdf
- [2]WHO. PFOS in Drinking-water: Background document for development of WHO Guidelines. 2022. https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/363832
- [3]EPA. PFAS Explained. https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained
- [4]NTP. Monograph on Immunotoxicity Associated with Exposure to PFOA and PFOS. 2016. https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/whatwestudy/assessments/noncancer/ongoing/immune
- [5]EPA. National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFAS: Final Rule. 2024. https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
- [6]ATSDR/CDC. PFAS in Private Wells: Water Treatment Options. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/health_professionals.html