In September of 2024, a recent study found that breastmilk, which has all the nutrients children need to grow up healthy and strong, might contain PFAS, also known as forever chemicals. While breastfeeding remains vital for infant nutrition, this study raises concerns about potential health risks, including impacts on child development. In this context, researchers argue for more stringent regulation on PFAS and decontamination. Although this study did not investigate further the effects of PFAS transferred through breastmilk to infants, other investigations demonstrate an association between prenatal PFAS exposure and neurotoxic effects.
What Are PFAS, And Are They A Concern?
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a series of man-made chemicals with properties that make them highly resistant to heat, water, and oil. Because of these properties, when PFAS were first created in the 1940s, several industries used them for an array of applications, including consumer goods and industrial products. Most non-stick cookware, stain-resistant carpets, and waterproof clothing had PFAS in them at this time.
However, decades before these products were launched on the market and PFAS became industrialized, DuPont and 3M, two companies with massive roles in the creation and expansion of PFAS use, were already aware of the toxic effects that these chemicals had based on their animal studies. It took some more decades of independent research driven by world universities to uncover the damaging effects of PFAS on the environment and human health. But the damage was already done.
The Extent Of The Contamination
Research now shows that 97% of Americans have PFAS in their blood and that these substances can cause several significant health issues, including cancers, autoimmune conditions, and chronic metabolic complications such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. More concerningly, PFAS tends to have an accumulative effect, meaning that with each exposure, more and more PFAS accumulate in the body, increasing the likelihood of developing any number of diseases.
To determine the extent of PFAS exposure in infants, the study conducted at the University of Shanghai analyzed samples from maternal serum, cord serum, and breastmilk in the Shanghai Maternal-Child Pairs Cohort. The research identified detectable levels of PFAS in most samples, with perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) showing the highest health risk for infants due to its significant hazard quotient (HQ) when ingested via breastmilk. Moreover, the study also revealed that estimated daily intakes (EDIs) of PFAS in breastfeeding infants declined with age, yet PFOS posed greater risks when compared to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). These findings pose significant concerns for the health of the population, and in particular the health of newborns, as PFAS and PFOA are not only linked with serious health conditions but can also impede normal development in children.
Protecting Yourself And Your Family From PFAS
One of the most important steps to take in protecting your family against PFAS contamination is using water filters recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency. Similarly, avoid all known sources of PFAS, such as non-stick pans, stain-resistant carpets made with PFAS, and furniture that contains PFAS. Additionally, avoid household products that don’t have clear descriptions for manufacturing composition, which may also contain PFAS.
Public Outrage And Legal Action
As many people suffered significant injuries to their health as a result of PFAS exposure, litigation was inevitable. The 3M company and DuPont (MDL No. 2873) settled for billions following actions that led to the contamination of drinking water wells for several communities. Other pending trials are also under development, including cases brought against the U.S. military that used PFAS in the form of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) at military stations nearing communities and their water supply.
At Atraxia Law, we understand the devastating impact that PFAS contamination can have on your health and the health of your family. If you believe you have been exposed, you have the right to seek justice and compensation. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to holding corporations and entities accountable for their negligence in exposing communities to forever chemicals.
The owners of Cinnamon Hollow and many of its authors are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice. We cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research and consult with your personal physician before using.
Stan Gottfredson serves as the President and CEO of Atraxia Law, a San Diego-based paralegal firm passionately dedicated to advocating for individuals and families affected by toxic exposure, ensuring they receive the support and justice they deserve.
