FREE Case Review (866) 588-0600

Is PFAS a Carcinogen? What You Need to Know

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), the most well-studied per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), as a potential human carcinogen, or cancer-causing substance.
Award Logos
Awards & recognition
C.L. Mike Schmidt Published by C.L. Mike Schmidt
Free Confidential Lawsuit Review
If you or a loved one was injured, you should contact our lawyers immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and we can help. Please click the button below for a Free Case Evaluation or call us toll-free 24 hrs/day by dialing (866) 588-0600.

Start My Free Case Review

What are PFOA and PFOS?

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) belong to a group of synthetic chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals are very stable and don’t interact much with other chemicals, which is why they’re useful for making products that resist oils, stains, water, and heat.

However, PFAS are a health concern because they don’t break down easily and can stay in the environment and in the human body for a long time. Studies have found them worldwide at low levels in just about everyone’s blood. Higher PFAS blood levels have been found in communities where local water supplies have been contaminated by the substances. People exposed to PFAS in the workplace can have much higher levels.

Related Article: PFAS Exposure Lawsuit Update

Is Teflon a PFOA?

PFOA was used to make Teflon products until 2013. Since then, all Teflon products are manufactured without PFOA, so the health effects of PFOA exposure from Teflon are no longer a cause for concern.

What Replaced PFOA in Teflon?

GenX chemicals have been used to replace PFOA in the making of fluoropolymers such as Teflon since PFOA and similar compounds have been found to be carcinogenic. However, in lab tests, GenX has been shown to cause many of the same health problems as PFOA.

When Should I Throw Away My Non-Stick Pans?

A good rule of thumb is to replace your non-stick pans about every 5 years. Examine your pans before every use. When they appear warped, discolored, or scratched, stop using them immediately and replace them.

Related Article: What Household Products Contain PFAS?

What is the Least Toxic Type of Cookware?

The least toxic cookware includes cast iron, stainless steel, ceramic, glass, and enamel-coated cast iron. These pans do not contain Teflon coating, which makes them safe to use.

Related Articles:

See all related product liability lawsuits our lawyers covered so far.

Choose our lawyers

Have you or a loved one been unreasonably injured by a dangerous or defective consumer product?

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new legal challenges in all 50 states.

If you or a loved one was injured by PFAS contamination, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.

Free Confidential Case Evaluation

Verified 100% Secure SiteTo contact us for a free review of your potential case, please fill out the form below or call us toll free 24 hrs/day by dialing: (866) 588-0600.