Where It Comes From
Used as processing aids in fluoropolymer manufacturing, in water/stain‑repellent treatments, and some firefighting foams; released from factories, products, and waste [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Drinking water near contaminated sites, eating fish, indoor dust, and contact with treated products; workers may inhale it. It crosses the placenta and occurs in breast milk [1].
Why It Matters
Very persistent and can build up in people. Some related PFAS are linked to higher cholesterol, liver effects, reduced vaccine response, developmental harms, and certain cancers (kidney, testicular) in studies of PFOA [1][3].
Who Is at Risk
Fluorochemical workers; people using private wells near manufacturing, waste sites, or fire‑training areas; pregnant people and young children [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Check your water utility’s PFAS results; test private wells. Use certified filters (reverse osmosis or activated carbon). Follow fish advisories; choose PFAS‑free products; wet‑dust and wash hands often [2][4].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls. 2018. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp200.pdf
- [2]U.S. EPA. PFAS Explained. https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained
- [3]NTP. Monograph on the Immunotoxicity Associated with Exposure to PFOA and PFOS. 2016. https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/ohat/pfoa_pfos/pfoa_pfosmonograph_508.pdf
- [4]U.S. EPA. Reduce PFAS in Your Drinking Water at Home (Fact Sheet). 2021. https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2021-07/pfas_drinking_water_treatment_home_fact_sheet_0.pdf