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| Chemicals: Perfluoroalkyl & Polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) Substances |
What are PFAS?
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a group of chemicals made by humans. Since the 1950s, PFAS have been used in many consumer products and industrial processes. They have properties that resist heat, grease, and water. There are thousands of types of PFAS. The most common types are PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctanoic sulfonic acid).
Where are PFAS found?While PFOA and PFOS have been phased out from their use in commercial products, they are still found in the environment from historical uses and in some firefighting foams. In addition, products are often made with other PFAS as replacements for PFOA and PFOS. These PFAS can be found in everyday products, such as: - Cleaning products
- Water-resistant fabrics, such as rain jackets, umbrellas, and tents
- Grease-resistant paper
- Nonstick cookware
- Personal care products, like shampoo, dental floss, nail polish, and eye makeup
- Stain-resistant coatings used on carpets, upholstery, and other fabrics
How can I be exposed to PFAS?
The main ways people can be exposed to PFAS include:- Drinking contaminated municipal or private well water
- Eating fish with high levels of PFAS
- Eating food grown or raised near places that used or made PFAS
- Eating food packaged in material made with PFAS
- Swallowing contaminated soil or dust
- Using some consumer products, such as ski wax, nonstick cookware, and stain and water repellent sprays for fabrics
How can PFAS affect health?
Scientists conduct research in both humans and animals to see how PFAS affect us.
Research studies among humans have looked at a possible link between PFAS levels in the blood and harmful health effects. However, most studies have analyzed only a small number of chemicals. Not all PFAS have the same health effects. Research suggests that high levels of some PFAS may:- Increase cholesterol levels
- Decrease how well the body responds to vaccines
- Increase the risk of thyroid disease
- Increase the risk of some cancers
- Increase the risk of serious conditions like high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia during pregnancy
- Lower infant birth weights (the decrease in weight is small and may not affect health)
PFAS Contamination in the Marinette and Peshtigo Area
In 2017, Johnson Controls, Inc. and Tyco Fire Products (JCI/Tyco) began investigating PFAS contamination in the Marinette and Peshtigo area. Since 2017, additional sites in the area have been identified. For the most up-to-date information, visit Wisconsin DNR.
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Additional Resources:
Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) |
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