PFAS: A Seemingly Harmless Molecule That Poses Serious Risks

Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoralkyl Substances (PFAS), also recognized as the “forever chemicals” are ubiquitous. PFAS exists on carpets, raincoats, and most typically, Teflon frying pans. Such substances are also present in water and soil.

The Abundance of PFAS

PFAS molecule’s long body consists of fluorine and carbon, one of the strongest chemical bonds. As such, elements including water, oil, or rays cannot react with this PFAS because the molecule’s bond works like a jacket, protecting it from breaking.

Even at school, there are PFAS molecules. Many schools reported that in the water fountain, which poses potential health risks. Furthermore, there are also some in school uniforms, just to make them “stain-resistant”.

Risks Associated with PFAS

Once scientists discovered the molecule’s unique properties, PFAS was mass-produced and widely applied where resistance to chemical interaction was desired. Yet, the prevalent use of PFAS yielded concerns.

Researchers noted the risk of developing diabetes and various types of cancer increased as PFAS accumulated in the body. PFAS, unlike other substances including sodium, arsenic, and uranium, does not interact with the body’s molecules or cause harm through chemical reactions.

There are two theories as to why PFAS is detrimental. First, PFAS has a similar molecular structure as fatty acids, which have hydrogen-carbon bonds instead of fluorine-carbon bonds. The carrier protein naturally grabs fatty acids while accidentally picking up these PFAS counterparts. Unlike fatty acids, PFAS molecules cannot function and protect the body. If increasingly greater numbers of fatty acids are replaced, the body will eventually malfunction, leading individuals to be affected by multiple diseases.

Second, another theory is that PFAS molecules, when inside the body, may disrupt the genetically controlled receptors, nullifying the receptor’s role of regulating insulin production.

Ways to Prevent Risks Associated with PFAS

 The existence of PFAS is inevitable, yet adopting certain lifestyle changes may help to minimize its harmful effects. PFAS is most commonly found in food packaging. In fact, multinational companies, like McDonald's, are reportedly removing PFAS from their food packaging supply chains, but this has yet to be definitively confirmed. As such, they are more mindful of the products consumers purchase and come in contact with. Opting for PFAS-free may be alternatives that contribute to minimizing health risks.

Another way to avoid this chemical is to investigate one’s local water supplies and to take necessary action. In 2023, a variety of PFAS was detected in most tapwaters in the USA. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made a standard to control it. However, the control was highly unobtainable, costing the agency billions of dollars. “Knowing your drinking water source is the most important,” said Lauren Zajac, who is a professor in environmental medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine.

PFAS may appear to be harmless due to its chemical inertness, yet its ubiquity and degree of potential harm continue to affect individuals around the world. Nonetheless, it is possible to reduce exposure to PFAS through proactive measures. It is critical not to ignore the threats PFAS pose to both human health and nature.