PFAS, or Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, are a group of thousands of chemicals that have been manufactured since the 1940s. Some of the PFAS chemicals have been more widely studied than others.

Researchers and the EPA are currently looking into the effects of PFAS, how to manage and dispose of it, and how to best protect humans and the environment from PFAS.

In addition to being present in some fire-fighting foam, PFAS can be found in consumer products such as waterproof clothing, stain-resistant carpet and furniture, non-stick cookware, and restaurant to-go containers. Colorado House Bill 22-1345 bans the use of PFAS in several common consumer products. You can read more about that here. Most people in the United States have been exposed to some PFAS by touching, drinking, eating, or breathing in materials containing PFAS. For more information about where PFAS can be found, visit the EPA PFAS website.

PFAS breaks down very slowly and can build up over time in people and animals. Research is ongoing and the full extent of the impact on human health and the environment is unknown. However, studies have revealed impacts to reproductive health in women and developmental health in children. There is evidence that it can also increase risks for some types of cancer, including prostate, kidney, and testicular cancer.

The more that is discovered about PFAS chemicals, the more we can learn about the health risks associated with them and at what levels they become dangerous. Even though recent efforts to remove certain PFAS from production have reduced the likelihood of exposure, some household products and indoor air or dust may still contain PFAS. Some PFAS chemicals like degreasers, stain-resistant, and non-stick products can end up being washed down your drain and enter the main sewer system. Restricting the use of these products in your home will reduce the amount of PFAS that in public systems and the environment.

If you would like more information on how to reduce your risk of PFAS exposure, go to the EPA’s Action Steps website.

Research on PFAS and the impact it has on humans and the environment is ongoing. To access the EPA’s current information including key actions and a strategic roadmap to mitigating PFAS impacts can be found here.