Where It Comes From
Made for textile and paper treatments, coatings, and other water/oil‑repellent uses; can form from breakdown of treated products and industrial wastes [1].
How You Are Exposed
Drinking water, indoor dust, contact with treated fabrics/paper, food contact materials, and workplace air in manufacturing or application settings [1][2].
Why It Matters
Very persistent and can transform to PFOS; PFOS is associated with immune effects and altered cholesterol, among other outcomes [1][3]. EPA set very low drinking water limits for PFOS due to health risks [2]. PFOA (a related PFAS) is classified carcinogenic to humans; PFOS is possibly carcinogenic [4].
Who Is at Risk
Workers in textile/paper finishing, metal plating, and firefighting; people near PFAS production or AFFF use sites; pregnant people, infants, and young children [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Use certified PFAS-reducing filters (activated carbon or reverse osmosis); check local water reports; limit use of stain‑resistant sprays or treatments; damp‑dust and vacuum with HEPA; follow workplace controls and PPE [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls (PFAS). 2021.
- [2]U.S. EPA. National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFAS (final). 2024.
- [3]NTP. Immunotoxicity Associated with Exposure to PFOA and PFOS. 2020.
- [4]IARC Monographs Vol. 131: Perfluorooctanoic acid (Group 1) and Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (Group 2B). 2023.