Where It Comes From
Production and use of stain-, grease-, and water‑repellent treatments for textiles, carpets, leather, paper, and some paints/inks [2].
How You Are Exposed
Indoor dust from treated products, skin contact with coated items, breathing spray during application, and PFAS in drinking water near manufacturing or waste sites [1][2].
Why It Matters
Side‑chain fluorinated polymers can degrade to perfluoroalkyl acids; PFAS are linked to effects on the immune system, liver, cholesterol, and development [1][2][4]. Unreacted acrylate monomers can irritate eyes, skin, and airways [3].
Who Is at Risk
Workers who make or apply these coatings; households with many stain‑resistant goods; children (dust exposure); and people who are pregnant [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Choose fluorine‑free/PFAS‑free products; ventilate and follow labels during use; HEPA‑vacuum and wet‑mop dust; frequent handwashing; check local water and consider certified filters for PFAS [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). 2021. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp200.pdf
- [2]U.S. EPA. Learn about PFAS. https://www.epa.gov/pfas/learn-about-pfas
- [3]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Acrylic Acid. https://wwwn.cdc.gov/TSP/ToxProfiles/ToxProfiles.aspx?id=799&tid=155
- [4]U.S. EPA. Long-Chain Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) Action Plan. https://www.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca/long-chain-perfluorinated-chemicals-pfcs-action-plan