Published by Table Of Contents
What Does PFAS Do to Your Health?
Scientists are still learning about the effects of per and polyfluoroalkyl substances on humans, but recent studies have found that PFAS can harm different systems in the body. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) [1], chronic exposure to PFAS chemicals may increase a person’s risk for kidney or testicular cancer, elevated cholesterol levels, and damage to the liver and immune system.
Related Articles: PFAS Lawsuit Update
What are the Symptoms of PFAS Exposure?
According to the ATSDR, potential health effects of PFAS exposure include:
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Decreased vaccine response in children
- Changes in liver enzymes
- Increased risk of high blood pressure or preeclampsia in pregnant women
- Decreases in infant birth weights
- Increased risk of kidney or testicular cancer
Related Article: PFAS Cancer Lawsuit Info
How Do I Avoid Eating PFAS in My Food?
You’ll avoid PFAS in take-out containers and reduce trash. Limit foods like hamburgers, pastries, or french fries which come in grease-resistant packaging. Recent studies have found PFAS in nearly 50% of tested wrappers or pastry bags.
What’s Being Done About PFAS in the Environment?
The U.S. government has recently taken a number of steps to address PFAS pollution on the state and federal levels. Along with the updated June 2022 drinking water advisory by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the government announced $1 billion in infrastructure grant funding to address the problem of PFAS contamination in the environment. The goal is to improve health protections with policies like required water testing.
In October 2021, the White House announced initiatives to protect communities and the environment from PFAS. The Biden administration listed steps for 8 government agencies, including the FDA, to tackle PFAS pollution.
What Can I Do About PFAS Pollution?
This is a complicated question, as PFAS can be hard to avoid completely. If you already own something that contains PFAS, it’s safe to use as long as you’re using it correctly (for instance: don’t overheat your non-stick pans). Just look for another alternative when it’s time to replace it.
The burden mainly lies with the manufacturers of PFAS to stop using the chemicals, and the government to ban or heavily restrict them. Many companies have recently pledged to stop using PFAS in any products, including some clothing, fast food, and outdoor sports brands.
FAQs
What are the common sources of PFAS exposure?
Common sources of PFAS exposure include contaminated drinking water, food packaging, non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foams. These chemicals can accumulate in the human body over time.
What are the primary health effects associated with PFAS exposure?
PFAS exposure has been linked to various health issues, including liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, high cholesterol, obesity, hormone suppression, and increased risk of certain cancers, such as kidney and testicular cancer.
How can I determine if my health issues are related to PFAS exposure?
Consult a medical professional if you have been exposed to PFAS and are experiencing health problems. They can help assess if there is a possible link between your condition and PFAS exposure through blood tests and other diagnostic methods.
Related Articles:
See all related product liability lawsuits our lawyers covered so far.
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.
To 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: