Sage Datko  |  March 7, 2020

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PFAS Overview

PFAS, or per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are manmade chemicals that contain carbon and fluorine, as well as additional chemicals. There are hundreds of PFAS in existence. They may be found in consumer products and are used in many industrial processes. However, these common chemical compounds may be dangerous to humans.

History of PFAS

PFAS became popular chemical compounds in the 1950s and 60s when it became apparent that the chemical compounds’ resistance to heat, water, and oil made them ideal for the production of many household products.

How Are People Exposed to PFAS?

PFAS may be found in non-stick cookware, fast food wrappers, popcorn bags, water-resistant clothing, cleaning products, and personal care products.

In addition to being found in water, oil, and heat resistant products, PFAS is also found in industrial products. One of the most common industrial products containing PFAS is firefighting foam. This foam is used by firefighters, the military, and fire and rescue organizations to control fires by smothering them. However, this foam contains PFAS. When sprayed, the foam and the PFAS may soak into the ground, contaminating local water supplies.

According to a 2016 study, dozens of communities across 27 states were found to have PFAS in drinking water. Approximately 6 million Americans may be affected by this contaminated drinking water. Many of the affected communities are located near industrial sites, military bases, and other areas where firefighting foam may be used. As PFAS are not found in nature, when the chemical compounds are found to have contaminated water sources, manmade products are to blame. PFAS in drinking water may lead to adverse health effects for humans.

PFAS Concerns

Adverse health effects caused by PFAS may include altered metabolism, fertility problems, increased risk of being overweight or obese, and damage to the immune system. The chemical compounds may also interfere with the body’s natural hormones, increase cholesterol levels, and increase the risk of developing cancer.

Pregnant women may be especially susceptible to the negative side effects caused by PFAS. PFAS may also lower infant birth weights, increase women’s blood pressure during pregnancy, and result in developmental problems in infants.

Legal Issues

As the bond between carbon and fluorine is very strong, these chemical compounds may take a long time to break down in nature or in human bodies. As it is hard to break down these compounds, they may build up, forming deposits in the earth or in people who have ingested them. These deposits may be found in the organs and tissues of humans and animals who drank contaminated water. When humans consume animals who have been exposed to PFAS in drinking water, the chemical compounds may be passed on to them.

PFAS Lawsuits

If you have consumed per and polyfluroalkyl substances due to contaminated drinking water, or been exposed to the chemical compounds through firefighting foam, you may be eligible to hire an experienced PFAS attorney to review your case. Victims who have been harmed by these manmade substances may be able to pursue compensation for their injuries, pain and suffering, and medical expenses.

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