Perfluoroalkyl acids: What is the evidence telling us?

Abstract

Perfluoroalkyl acids including perfluorooctanyl sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) have been found in animals and humans around the world. Animal studies have revealed that high doses of PFOS and PFOA cause cancer, physical development delays, endocrine disruption, neonatal mortality, and immunotoxicity. In humans, higher levels of these compounds are linked with decreased birth weight, reduced head circumference, and longer gestational periods. PFOA and PFOS are being replaced with other members of the perfluoroalkyl acid family as well as the related fluorotelomer alchols are being introduced as less toxic replacements, but these chemicals can turn into PFOA or PFOS as the result of metabolism or environmental biodegradation. Research into the health effects of these chemicals in both animals and humans are gathering momentum.