Where It Comes From
Production and use of fluorinated surfactants for coatings, metal finishing, and other industrial processes; releases to wastewater, soil, and air [2].
How You Are Exposed
Drinking contaminated water, eating affected fish/wildlife, contact with indoor dust or products, and workplace exposure where PFAS are made or used [1][2].
Why It Matters
Data on this specific chemical are limited; however, many PFAS are linked to increased cholesterol, reduced vaccine response, liver/thyroid changes, pregnancy-related hypertension, and some cancers (e.g., PFOA) [1][3].
Who Is at Risk
Workers handling PFAS; people near industrial sites or firefighting‑foam use; private‑well users; pregnant people, infants/children; and those who frequently eat locally caught fish [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
If on a private well, test for PFAS and use certified filters (NSF/ANSI 53 or 58); follow fish advisories; reduce indoor dust (HEPA/wet mopping); check local water reports; follow workplace protections [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR/CDC. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Your Health. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/
- [2]U.S. EPA. PFAS Explained. https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained
- [3]IARC. Carcinogenicity of PFOA and PFOS (Monographs Vol. 135, 2023). https://www.iarc.who.int/news-events/iarc-monographs-evaluate-the-carcinogenicity-of-pfoa-and-pfos/