How Dangerous are PFAS Chemicals? Is the Toxicity Overhyped?
In recent years, concerns about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have captured headlines and sparked widespread debate. These synthetic chemicals, commonly found in everyday products, have come under scrutiny due to their persistence in the environment and risk to humans.
That said, questions linger about the true extent of their toxicity and whether the associated risks are overhyped. In this article, we will find out whether the dangers of PFAS chemicals warrant the reputation they have.
There Are Many Toxic Substances: Why Do PFAS Get So Much Attention?
There are indeed several factors that cause PFAS chemicals to be particularly dangerous. Data suggests that PFAS contamination already exists in all fifty states and people might be consuming contaminated water without realizing it.
We also know that states like Michigan top the list in terms of toxic contamination. Some Michigan residents like Sandy Wynn-Stelt have been exposed to chemical levels 750 times the average American.
When people hear the word “PFAS” they might already be aware of its long-lasting nature (hence the term “forever chemicals’).
However, the biggest reason for their danger is how widespread their use is. PFAS have been utilized for decades due to their unique properties, including oil and water repellency, heat resistance, and durability.
As a result, its contamination is pervasive in the environment, with contamination found in water supplies, soil, air, and wildlife habitats worldwide.
You might have seen news reports about firefighters developing cancer, right? Did you ever wonder how that happens? After all, cancer is not a hazard that we normally associate with this field.
The truth is, PFAS chemicals are to blame even here. They are present in the fire extinguishers that are used to put out liquid fires (Aqueous Film Forming Foam). Firefighters who have been exposed to it are taking legal action, and the AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts help them pay off their medical bills.
Their Impact on Health Extends Beyond Cancer
TruLaw notes that PFAS in AFFF fire extinguishers is linked to numerous kinds of cancer. Similarly, other sources cite the increased risk of cancer when individuals are exposed to PFAS chemicals. However, one justification for why people fear these chemicals is the diverse ways they can impact health.
There are studies that link PFAS exposure to issues such as reduced birth weight, preterm birth, and altered hormone levels. There are also concerns regarding infertility, miscarriage, and pregnancy-induced hypertension.
Research suggests that PFAS exposure may weaken the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections and reducing the efficacy of vaccines. This compromised immunity means increased vulnerability to infectious diseases and other immune-related disorders.
We also know that an association exists between PFAS exposure and liver enzyme abnormalities. The liver is a crucial organ for detoxification and metabolism, and its impairment can have far-reaching implications for overall health and well-being.
Conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease have been on the rise with no clear explanation. However, a study conducted by researchers from the University of Southern California proved that PFAS exposure was a contributing factor.
The Verdict: Are The Dangers of PFAS Chemicals Overhyped?
No. PFAS chemicals certainly deserve the reputation they have.
Remember, this isn’t a rare toxic chemical that stays locked up in highly secure labs and factories. Instead, this is a family of chemicals that is known for being widely used in many industries.
In fact, one could argue that people aren’t taking their danger as seriously as they should. The fact that they also last for thousands of years doesn’t help the situation either.
There is some hope, though.
Researcher Selma Thagard found that exposing PFAS chemicals to electrically discharged plasma causes the chemicals to fall apart. She demonstrated this in a field test at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, getting PFAS levels below the health-advisory limit in a few minutes.
The U.S. military has since been funding research by Thagard, among others, to help develop new strategies for PFAS contamination control. After all, they do contribute to the contamination, unintentionally through the use of firefighting foam and specific detergents for cleaning vehicles.
In conclusion, the widespread use of PFAS, coupled with their persistence and propensity for bioaccumulation, makes them particularly dangerous substances. It is clear that these chemicals deserve serious attention and concerted efforts to address their environmental and health impacts.
While regulatory measures and public awareness campaigns are essential, further research is definitely going to be needed to fully understand the extent of PFAS toxicity.
