Published by Table Of Contents
What are Some Examples of PFAS?
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that include perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), HFPO dimer acid (GenX), and many other chemicals. Examples of where PFAS can be found include fire-fighting foams, cleaners, textiles, leather, paper and paints, and wire insulation.
Related Article: PFAS Exposure Lawsuit Update
What are the Effects of PFAS on the Body?
Scientific research suggests that exposure to high levels of PFAS may lead to adverse health outcomes, including:
- Reproductive effects such as decreased fertility or increased high blood pressure in pregnant women.
- Developmental delays in children include low birth weight, accelerated puberty, bone variations, and behavioral changes.
- Heightened risk of prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers.
- Decreased ability of the immune system to fight infections, including reduced vaccine response.
- Interference with the body’s natural hormones.
- Increased cholesterol levels and/or risk of obesity.
How Do I Know if I Have PFAS in My Body?
A blood test can determine what your PFAS levels are at the time the blood was drawn, but not whether your levels are “safe” or “unsafe.” Most people have measurable amounts of PFAS in their bodies because PFAS chemicals are commonly used in thousands of commercial and industrial products.
What Cancers are Caused by PFAS?
- Kidney Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Endometrial Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Thyroid Cancer
- Childhood Leukemia
Related Article: PFAS Cancer Lawsuit
Can Your Body Get Rid of PFAS?
Certain PFAS leave the body slowly over time, mostly through urine. People who have kidney disease may not release as much PFAS from their bodies as healthy individuals. Some PFAS routinely leave the body in blood during menstruation. Women who menstruate may excrete more PFAS than those who do not.
FAQs
How do PFAS enter the human body?
PFAS can enter the human body through ingestion of contaminated food or water, use of products containing PFAS, or inhalation of dust and particles. Once in the body, PFAS can accumulate over time.
What are the potential health effects of PFAS exposure?
PFAS exposure has been linked to various health effects, including cancer (e.g., kidney and testicular cancer), liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, increased cholesterol levels, and immune system suppression.
How can I reduce my exposure to PFAS?
Reduce exposure to PFAS by using water filters that remove PFAS, avoiding non-stick cookware, choosing PFAS-free products, and limiting consumption of processed foods and fast food, which may be packaged in materials containing PFAS.
Are there any treatments for PFAS exposure?
There are no specific treatments to remove PFAS from the body. The best approach is to reduce exposure and manage any health conditions associated with PFAS through medical care and lifestyle changes.
Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
The Product Liability Litigation Group at our 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 Schmidt & Clark, LLP 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: