Lead is a potent neurotoxin, and it has significant effects on childhood health and development. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that lead exposure can affect nearly every system in a child's body, inhibiting the growth of both physical and mental abilities.
WHAT ARE PFOS AND PFOA?
PFOS and PFOA are human-made compounds that do not occur naturally in the environment. They are fluorinated compounds that repel oil and water. PFOS and PFOA are used in a variety of industrial and consumer products, such as carpet and clothing treatments and firefighting foams. PFOS and PFOA are the two PFASs that are being produced in the largest amounts within the United States. They are extremely persistent in the environment and are resistant to most chemicals and microbial conventional treatment technologies. They are known to bioaccumulate in humans and wildlife.
How do you get exposed to PFOS and PFOA?
PFOS and PFOA are readily absorbed through oral exposure. Potential ways of exposure include ingestion of food and water, use of consumer products or inhalation of particulate matter containing PFAS. PFOA and PFOS have been found in drinking water supplies, typically associated with industrial use, manufacturing locations, or disposal. The EPA has not issued a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for drinking water.
What are the health effects of PFOS and PFOA?
Human Epidemiological studies found links between PFOA exposure and high cholesterol, increased liver enzymes, thyroid disorders, pregnancy-induced hypertension, decreased vaccination response, preeclampsia, and cancer. Human epidemiological research found associations between PFOS exposure and high cholesterol and adverse reproductive and developmental effects.
