PFAS stands for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The per/poly means that it contains multiples of a specific element; in this case, that element is fluorine. Many of these substances also have an alkyl chain, which represents the "A" in the acronym. This group of chemicals was created in the 1940s and still exists. Two of the more popular chemicals in this group are PFOS and PFOA. These stand for perfluorooctane sulfate and perfluorooctanoic acid, respectively. Due to the carbon-fluorine bonds, these chemicals are very strong and persistent. It was created this way to be used in a variety of common items. Some include nonstick cooking utensils, water/stain repellent sprays, food wrappers, waterproof clothing, and some electronic screens. It can also be used in fire extinguisher foam; this is mainly for training purposes. These chemicals were created to essentially last forever. They have been deemed "forever chemicals" by some due to their lasting existence in the environment. While useful, PFAS have grown to be a problem for the environment and its inhabitants. They can get into the bloodstream and digestive systems of humans and animals. This contamination can lead to many health issues for us and possibly for animals through the soil, air, or waterways.
PFAS has been linked to health issues, but many questions still need answering. Does exposure need to be high or can it be low? Over short or long periods of time? Do all types of PFAS cause harm? Research is still being done in attempts to get answers. Adults can come into contact with PFAS in ways that differ from children due to pregnancy and the workforce. Pregnant women tend to drink more water and could intake more PFAS that way. Likewise, workers in areas that use or have used PFAS will be more at risk. Children have some different risks; they eat, drink, and breathe more "per pound of bodyweight than adults," all of which can lead to more PFAS exposure. Relatively healthy adults may not be at much risk; a strong immune system, sanitary practices, and PFAS awareness can all be beneficial to staying healthy. Individuals with "pre-existing conditions," along with children and pregnant women, are considered more vulnerable. People may experience reduced immune systems, increased cholesterol, and possibly some cancers. Specifically for pregnant women, lower fertility or higher blood pressure may occur; children could experience low birth weight, increased puberty, and/or behavioral changes. With our growing knowledge of these chemicals and their health impacts, we can raise awareness and take precautions on their spread, contamination, and impacts.
Outreach, raising awareness, or educating the public can take place at all levels of the community. Even if it starts with just one individual, it can have waves of impact. In September of 2024, a group of high schoolers, the PFAS Annihilators, worked to find proteins that could degrade PFAS. The goal is to find and eventually create proteins that can break the carbon-fluorine bonds. This program was put together by the California Institute of Technology to provide young students the opportunity to collaborate and experience hands-on research. This group also learned about the ethical side of science. Scientific progress should include scientists who are thinking about public health and societal values. While advancements are great, many ethical, health, and safety implications can come with them.
As well as us, PFAS can affect the environment. Since PFAS are often used at the industrial level, it would be of benefit to track the waste/removal for pollution. The chemicals can find their way into the water bodies and animals, which impacts other animals at each level of the food chain. If the source water or food is polluted and then consumed, the consumer will absorb the chemical and potentially pass it on to other animals or humans. Students are great for raising awareness and promoting because of their connections. Almost all of them use social media, and a simple post about PFAS could reach a vast audience. Also, they can join environmental education organizations that can help them promote issues, create ideas, and get their voices out there. Reaching out to local government or health organizations can also reach a wide audience and get things going from a legal standpoint. Connecticut is taking measures to ban PFAS in consumer products as the need for regulation grows. The young generation of today will be the leaders in the coming years, and educating them on the current topics of the world will help equip them to shape a healthier, safer environment.