What are Forever Chemicals?
Forever chemicals are a group of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that resist degradation in the environment. Among these, PFAS chemicals are prodominatly used in our industry and consumer goods, due to their remarkable resistance to water and grease. They can be found in anything from cookware to food wrappers.
New research is now showing that PFAS exposure is associated with a whole host of ill health effects. With no defined safe threshold for PFAS, it’s crucial to minimize exposure whenever feasible.
What are the Health Effects?
PFAS have been shown to interfere with hormone signaling pathways in the body, leading to disruptions in hormonal balance. This endocrine-disrupting activity can affect various physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproductive function.
Prenatal exposure to PFAS has been associated with adverse developmental outcomes in children, including lower birth weight, altered growth patterns, and developmental delays. These effects may persist into childhood and adolescence, impacting cognitive and behavioral development.
Exposure to PFAS has been linked to suppression of the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and reducing the effectiveness of vaccines. PFAS exposure may also exacerbate autoimmune disorders and inflammatory conditions.
PFAS have been shown to accumulate in the liver and can cause liver damage, including inflammation, fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer). Long-term exposure to PFAS may increase the risk of liver dysfunction and disease.
Some studies suggest that PFAS exposure may be associated with kidney damage and dysfunction, including decreased kidney function and an increased risk of chronic kidney disease.
While the evidence is still emerging, some studies have suggested a potential link between PFAS exposure and certain types of cancer, including testicular cancer, kidney cancer, and thyroid cancer. However, more research is needed to establish a definitive causal relationship.
PFAS exposure has been associated with reproductive disorders, including reduced fertility, altered menstrual cycles, and hormonal imbalances. Some studies have also suggested a potential link between PFAS exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as miscarriage and preterm birth.
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“This Chemical Does Nothing, But It’s Still Bad For You”
by MinuteEarth
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Where are Forever Chemicals?
PFAS are commonly present in non-stick cookware products, such as Teflon-coated pans, to prevent food from sticking.
Outdoor gear, upholstery, carpets, and other textiles often contain PFAS to repel water and stains effectively.
Certain food packaging materials, like microwave popcorn bags and fast-food wrappers, may incorporate PFAS to prevent grease from seeping through.
PFAS contamination in drinking water sources, particularly near industrial sites and military bases where firefighting foams were used, has been a significant concern. PFAS can leach into groundwater and surface water, contaminating drinking water supplies.
PFAS have historically been utilized in firefighting foams, known as aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF), to enhance their effectiveness in combating flammable liquid fires.
Some cosmetics, including waterproof mascara and foundation, may contain PFAS to provide water resistance.
Certain electronic products may incorporate PFAS to improve performance and durability.
PFAS can be found in some household cleaning products, such as stain removers and carpet cleaners, aiding in the breakdown of grease and stains.