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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.
FAQs
How can PFAS exposure occur?
PFAS exposure can occur through contaminated drinking water, food, household products, and occupational settings. Firefighting foams and industrial processes are significant sources of environmental contamination.
What health effects are associated with PFAS exposure?
Health effects linked to PFAS exposure include liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, high cholesterol, immune system effects, and an increased risk of certain cancers, such as kidney and testicular cancer.
Are PFAS considered carcinogenic?
Some studies and regulatory agencies, including the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), suggest that certain PFAS compounds, particularly PFOA and PFOS, may be carcinogenic to humans.
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