A first-of-its-kind study looks at the biological processes triggered by PFAS compounds.
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of compounds that are common in industrial and consumer products.
Now, a new review of 26 PFAS substances is raising concerns about characteristics that the chemicals share with known carcinogens.
“Our research has shown that PFAS impact biological functions linked to an increased risk of cancer,” warns toxicologist and primary author of the study, Alexis Temkin, Ph.D.
The study, appearing in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, was a collaboration between the Environmental Working Group, in Washington, D.C., and the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health at Indiana University Bloomington’s School of Public Health.
According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, these compounds “keep food from sticking to cookware, make clothes and carpets resistant to stains, and create firefighting foam,” and PFAS are also used “in industries such as aerospace, automotive, construction, electronics, and military.”
According to the institute, the two best-known and most-studied PFAS are perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), formerly used in DuPont’s Teflon coatings, and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), once used in 3M’s Scotchgard brand of stain and water repellents.
Research in animals indicates that both of these chemicals can cause damage to the liver and immune system, developmental abnormalities and delays, and deaths of newborns.
Meanwhile, other studies in animals show that least one currently used PFAS, GenX — the “safer” replacement for PFOS — produces tumors.
“This is worrisome,” says Temkin, “given that all Americans are exposed to PFAS mixtures on a daily basis from contamination in water, food, and everyday products.”
PFAS are used in a wide range of products, including carpet protectants, nonstick cookware, dental floss, surgical gowns and drapes, preheated foo