Research shows that exposure to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) can cause breast cancer, according to a study in the Journal of Applied Toxicology.
Aside from the potential of developing the risk of breast cancer, PFAS chemicals also pose other health risks to humans. For instance, the American Cancer Society notes that PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), which is a compound of PFAS, is linked to the development of other cancers in humans, such as:
- Testicular
- Kidney
- Thyroid
- Prostate
- Ovarian
- Bladder
Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that humans are at risk of the following health effects from excessive PFAS exposure:
- Increased cholesterol
- Fluctuating infant birth weight
- Immune system complications
- Disruption of thyroid hormones
How PFAS Causes Breast Cancer Through Exposure
There are several common ways in which humans can be exposed to PFAS and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), which is a compound of PFAS. In fact, the American Cancer Society studied PFOA, and it was found to be the strand of PFAS that can lead to the development of cancers in humans.
According to the EPA, PFAS can be exposed to humans in:
- Drinking water
- Food
- Workplace
- Living organisms
- Consumer products
For women, consumer products such as Teflon are linked to the development of breast cancer cells.
PFAS is a popular resource for manufacturers because it is a “forever chemical,” meaning it lasts for long periods of time and has a long half-life. Its previous uses included many non-stick products, such as with cookware. In particular, PFOA is found to be very dangerous for the human body because it can remain in the environment and in your body for long periods of time.
Protecting Yourself From PFAS
Because there are so many ways in which you receive exposure to PFAS chemicals, it is difficult to pinpoint one technique to protect yourself from PFAS. However, you may start by looking into your drinking water supply. In 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) published a press release about plans to conduct a study of PFAS exposure in certain areas of the country.
In fact, the ATSDR has a map with information about sites in the country where the agency will conduct studies. If you find yourself living in an area that is in close proximity to a contamination site, you may want to consider testing your drinking water for PFAS.
To test your drinking water, you can contact an EPA-approved PFAS laboratory to submit a sample of your household’s drinking water. Another option to protect yourself from PFAS exposure through your drinking water is by using an activated carbon filter to reduce the amount of chemicals you consume through water.
Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm for a Free Case Review
If you or someone you love received a diagnosis of breast cancer after exposure to PFAS chemicals, contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm for a free case review. Our team will review your free case to determine your legal recourse opportunities. You should not have to suffer further damage. We will protect your rights and fight for the compensation you are entitled to. You should not have to pay for any necessary treatment; the defendant should. To begin your free consultation, call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today at (800) 794-0444.