As time has gone on, there has been a growing level of concern over per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known collectively as PFAS. This is due in part to how prevalent these chemicals are, not only in the items we purchase every day, but also in the environment. But what exactly are PFAS, and why are they potentially dangerous?
What Are PFAS?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are a class of chemicals that are used in a wide variety of commercial and industrial processes. They are known colloquially as “forever chemicals” due to how long they stick around without being broken down, causing them to linger in the environment as well as inside people’s bodies. This allows even small amounts of these chemicals to build up over time, until they accumulate to the point where they have toxic effects.
What Are PFAS Used For?
PFAS are used to manufacture a large number of consumer products, including non-stick cookware and stain-resistant clothing. They are also sometimes used in packaging materials to make them resistant to water or grease stains, and can be found in certain personal care items like makeup and dental floss. They are also often used in firefighting foam, where their non-reactive properties can help them put out especially dangerous fires like grease fires or electrical fires.
What Are the Health Effects of PFAS Exposure?
People who are exposed to PFAS can suffer a number of serious health issues, including high blood pressure, liver damage, thyroid problems, and reduced fertility. Exposure to these chemicals has also been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including testicular and kidney cancer. Children who are exposed to PFAS in the womb are more likely to suffer from a low birth weight, as well as certain developmental delays.
Why is This Such a Big Problem?
Unfortunately, due to the fact that PFAS do not readily break down in the environment or in the human body, they can linger for a long time. In fact, it is believed that almost every living human has at least some PFAS exposure. People who suspect they may have toxic levels of PFAS should speak to a doctor, and consult a lawyer with experience handling environmental law claims to discuss potential legal options.
To date, Williams Cedar and co-counsel have handled a wide array of PFAS cases, recovering more than $100 million for victims of exposure.
Williams Cedar is a law firm dedicated to helping clients with personal injury, environmental law, and civil rights cases. We specialize in assisting clients who have been injured due to exposure to environmental toxins, including veterans and their loved ones. If you need legal assistance due to toxic exposure or other related matters, please give us a call at our New Jersey and Pennsylvania offices at (215) 557-0099, or visit our contact page.