A Timeless Concern
There’s been a lot of buzz recently about these chemicals, but what actually are they and what harm do they pose? In this article we take a deep dive into these persistent chemicals.
What are Forever Chemicals?
This is a term that was coined to serve as an umbrella for thousands of man-made chemicals that do not break down easily. Two of the commonest chemicals that have been studied and researched - and the focus of this article - are Polyfluroalkyl Substances (PFOS) and perflurooctanoic Acid (PFOA).
Why Were They Designed?
Back in 1947, 3M a major manufacturer, producing a plethora of items, ranging from masks to building materials, started to manufacture these forever chemicals. A key property, being a surfactant, which reduces the surface tension between to liquids, gained the interest of DuPont, another industrial manufacturer. Given this quality, it became evident that if they were used in frying pans it would offer a non-stick option whilst cooking. And so the birth of non-stick cookware and Teflon.
Over many years, a number of those working in these factories became unwell and had offspring that also had congenital abnormalities. In 1999 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ordered these companies to examine the effect and toxicity of these products. So, in 2000 3M after conducting studies, phased out the manufacturing of these chemicals.
DuPont however, one of the most successful industrial enterprises locally, didn’t like the idea of this. Despite knowing that there were some issues with their workers, in 2002, they decided to start manufacturing their own supply to continue it’s use. However as time went on a class actions against the company grew, in 2004 they disposed of over 1.7million pounds of the product in the ocean, causing environmental pollution. Eventually in 2022, as per their mission statement on their website, they have stopped manufacturing the chemicals.
There were other companies using these chemicals, however many have ceased now due to the recent findings.
Where Are They Found?
Despite the apparent reduction in their manufacture, forever chemicals can still be found in common household objects. Non-stick cookware (unless stated otherwise), microwavable popcorn bags, grease-proof paper, dental floss, waterproof clothing, some shampoos and even water if living near a contaminated site are all examples.
In fact, exposure is so common that in the year 2003–2004 in the United States 95–100% of people were found to have levels detected in their blood. Thankfully, this number is now on the decline.
As forever chemicals don’t break down easily, it can take up to at least 4 years for it to reduce by a half in the human body. They are seen in high levels around airports, defecnce training and governmental sites. This could be in part be due to the use of fire extinguishing foams which historically used these chemicals. Many countries now, including Australia have reduced their usage and only use them in certain situations under strict control.
As such, surrounding areas may have their water supply affected. However, as more information is being brought to light about these chemicals, more is being done to monitor and reduce the exposure to humans, however as mentioned before, these chemicals are very stable and don’t break down easily.
Possible Harmful Effects
The research around these chemicals is still new and emerging. There is still a lot to learn. Studies on mice so far have indicated some harmful effects of the chemicals such as liver dysfunction, inflammatory bowel disease, physical developmental delay, reduced immune system, reduced response to vaccination, alteration of metabolism and a possible increase in cholesterol. Forever chemicals have also been classified as a possible carcinogens.
How to Reduce Exposure
As we still have limited evidence on the harm they pose to humans, it’s safe to say it’s worthwhile reducing your exposure and risk. If you use non-stick cookware you could consider changing to stainless steel or a good quality ceramic or enameled cast iron option.
Some manufacturers will label their products as being “free from” forever chemicals, which could be another option to reduce your risk.
In addition, if you have found out that your water supply may be contaminated, studies have shown that using reverse osmosis or a carbon filtration system may help.
Interestingly, the Food and Drugs Administration in the US have not set standards for forever chemicals and so the EPA do not guarantee that drinking bottled water could necessarily have less of these chemicals.
What Now?
The best education is awareness and taking steps to reduce your exposure. If you are concerned about any of the above, be sure to check your own governmental website to see what is being done about it closer to you. Of course if you have any health concerns, then be sure to see your own medical doctor for an individual check up.
I hope that you have found this article helpful.
Take care and stay healthy,
Dr Nora x
Please note that the contents of this article are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
