What Are ‘Forever Chemicals’?
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Forever chemicals, also known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), are a group of human-made chemicals that are used to make a variety of everyday products such as non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, food packaging, and stain-resistant fabrics. It is important to note that while these chemicals are widely used, there are steps that can be taken to limit exposure and reduce potential harm.
‘Forever chemicals’ are a group of synthetic chemicals that do not break down easily in the environment, and can persist in the human body for a long time. Although they have been used in a wide range of consumer products for decades, research has shown that exposure to PFAS can have negative effects on human health.
Studies have linked PFAS exposure to a variety of health problems, including increased risk of cancer, immune system dysfunction, and developmental delays in children. PFAS have been found to accumulate in the environment around us and in the food chain, leading to concerns about their potential impact on wildlife and ecosystems. There is also a growing concern about the use of PFAS in consumer products.
PFAS chemicals are not biodegradable, and they can accumulate in the body over time, leading to a range of health problems such as kidney and testicular cancer, decreased fertility, and changes in hormone function.
Some of the most commonly found PFAS chemicals include PFOS (Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid), and two well-known examples: PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid), which were once used in Teflon and Scotchgard.
Other PFAS chemicals include PFNA (Perfluorononanoic acid), PFHxS (Perfluorohexanesulfonic acid), and PFDA (Perfluorodecanoic acid), among others. Click here for a list of 100 PFAS chemicals.
What Are ‘Forever Chemicals’?