Is PFAS the same as PFOA and PFOS?

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that include Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA). These elements have a negative effect on the health of those exposed to them.

Is PFAS the same as Teflon?

In 1946, DuPont introduced Teflon to the world, changing millions of people’s lives – and polluting their bodies. Today, the family of compounds including Teflon, commonly called PFAS, is found not only in pots and pans but also in the blood of people around the world, including 99 percent of Americans.

Is PFOA chemical still used?

PFOA and some closely related chemicals (such as PFOS) are now no longer made in the US, although they are still made in some other countries and could potentially reach US consumers in certain types of products. In addition, many other PFAS are now in use, and new ones are still being developed.

How do you get PFAS out of your body?

Currently, there are no definitive medical procedures that can clear PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) from the body, according to the Secretary of the United States Navy. However, the best step you can take is to remove the source of the exposure from your environment.

Why should PFAS be banned?

Why it is important: PFAS are man-made chemicals that do not break down and may have adverse effects on human health. Not only do PFAS leach into the food with which they come in contact, but they can also infiltrate the air, soil, and water supplies when disposed of in landfills.

What are PFAS contaminants?

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of human-made chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1950s. PFAS contamination may be in drinking water, food, indoor dust, some consumer products, and workplaces.

What are PFAS used for?

The per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of chemicals used to make fluoropolymer coatings and products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. Fluoropolymer coatings can be in a variety of products.

How do you know if you have PFOA in your blood?

The New York State Department of Health is collecting blood samples as part of a PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) biomonitoring program. Biomonitoring assesses people’s exposure to chemicals, in this case, by measuring PFOA in blood. Biomonitoring can tell us about exposure to PFOA from drinking water and other sources.

Does Brita filter remove PFOA?

Although they reduce or remove many different chemicals from tap water, Brita filters do not remove PFAs.