Where It Comes From
Industrial uses of specialty surfactants and surface treatments (e.g., water/oil repellents), metal plating, and older firefighting foams; PFOS-related substances can degrade to PFOS in the environment [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Drinking water near industrial sites, airports, or bases; household dust; some treated consumer goods; and workplace air or skin contact in affected industries [1][2].
Why It Matters
PFOS and related PFAS persist and bioaccumulate; associated with decreased vaccine antibody response, increased cholesterol, developmental effects, and liver/thyroid changes [1][3].
Who Is at Risk
Workers in fluorochemical manufacturing, metal plating, and firefighting; communities near contaminated sites; pregnant people, fetuses, and infants (transfer via placenta and breast milk) [1][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Check local PFAS water advisories; use NSF/ANSI 53 or 58 certified filters (activated carbon or reverse osmosis); limit “stain/water-resistant” products; follow workplace protections and hygiene [1][4].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls (PFAS). 2021.
- [2]EPA. Significant New Use Rules for PFOS and PFOS-related substances (40 CFR 721.9582) and PFOS basic information.
- [3]NTP. Monograph on Immunotoxicity Associated with PFOA and PFOS. 2016.
- [4]EPA. Reducing PFAS in Drinking Water with Home Treatment Devices (EPA 815-F-22-003). 2022.