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CAS 375-22-4

PFBA

Selected Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)PFAS

PFBA (perfluorobutanoic acid) is a short-chain PFAS, a group of man‑made “forever chemicals” used to repel water and stains. It persists in the environment and can contaminate water; in people it clears faster than some PFAS but may still affect health [1].

Where It Comes From

Made for industrial uses and formed as a breakdown product of other PFAS used in water‑ and stain‑resistant goods [1][2].

How You Are Exposed

Drinking water near manufacturing, firefighting foam, or waste sites; food and indoor dust; workplace air/skin in PFAS industries [1][2].

Why It Matters

Animal studies link PFBA to liver and thyroid hormone changes; human evidence is limited. Repeated low‑level exposure can keep body levels up despite faster clearance [1].

Who Is at Risk

People using contaminated private wells or living near PFAS facilities; PFAS workers; pregnant people, fetuses, and infants (thyroid hormones are critical for development) [1][2].

How to Lower Your Exposure

Use tested water or install reverse osmosis or activated carbon filters certified for PFAS; follow local water and fish advisories; limit use of stain‑/water‑resistant products; follow workplace protections [2][3].

References

  1. [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls (PFAS). 2021. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp200.pdf
  2. [2]U.S. EPA. PFAS Explained. https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained
  3. [3]U.S. EPA. Reduce Your Exposure to PFAS. https://www.epa.gov/pfas/reduce-your-exposure-pfas

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