PFA Contamination and Exposure Risks

Written by Atlee Hall

Mounting scientific evidence indicates that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) pose a direct and ongoing threat to the health and well-being of those exposed to them. Given the nature of the chemicals, their presence in the environment is everywhere. Despite their potential for ongoing damage, manufacturers have not warned the general population or stopped their production and use. Atlee Hall aims to hold manufacturing companies accountable for their role in producing and disseminating PFAS.

What Are PFA Chemicals?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, are synthetic chemicals used extensively in industrial and consumer products due to their non-stick, water-resistant, and stain-resistant properties. While their utility has led to widespread application, the dark side of PFAS lies in their persistence in the environment and their potential to cause severe health issues in humans.

Scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to an array of health problems, including but not limited to, cancer, hormonal disruption, developmental abnormalities, and liver and kidney damage. The dangers of PFAS chemicals are far-reaching, as they not only contaminate drinking water sources but also accumulate in the soil and pose a threat to the entire ecosystem, including wildlife.

One of the most concerning aspects of PFAS is their omnipresence. They have been found in soil, water bodies, wildlife, and even in the blood of people across the globe. The widespread contamination is primarily attributed to the industrial discharge of PFAS, as well as their presence in everyday products such as non-stick cookware, water-resistant textiles, food packaging, and firefighting foams.

PFA Risks to Humans

The growing body of research on PFAS reveals a host of health risks associated with exposure to these chemicals:

  1. Cancer: Studies have linked PFAS exposure to various types of cancers, including kidney, testicular, and ovarian cancer. PFOA and PFOS, in particular, have been classified as possible human carcinogens by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
  2. Reproductive and Developmental Issues: Prenatal exposure to PFAS has been associated with low birth weight, delayed development, and compromised immune systems in infants. Additionally, PFAS exposure has been linked to fertility issues in both men and women.
  3. Hormonal Disruption: PFAS can interfere with hormone regulation in the human body, potentially leading to thyroid disorders, reduced fertility, and developmental abnormalities.
  4. Liver and Kidney Damage: Long-term exposure to PFAS has been shown to cause damage to the liver and kidneys, impacting their ability to function properly.

Environmental Risks

The environmental repercussions of PFAS are equally alarming:

  1. Water Pollution: PFAS contamination in water sources is a growing concern. These chemicals are resistant to water treatment processes, leading to their accumulation in drinking water supplies and posing a significant risk to public health.
  2. Soil Contamination: PFAS can seep into the soil, affecting agricultural lands and potentially entering the food chain.
  3. Impact on Wildlife: PFAS chemicals have been detected in various animal species, leading to harmful effects on their reproductive success and overall health.

The dangers of PFAS chemicals and the long-lasting impact of these “forever chemicals” on human health and the environment is of grave concern.

Harmed by PFA Exposure? Call Atlee Hall Today

If you or your loved one have suffered adverse health effects or conditions due to PFA exposure, you may have legal recourse.

Call Atlee Hall today at (717) 393-9596 or contact us to schedule a free initial consultation.