Unveiling the Hidden Dangers of PFOS: What's Lurking In Your Water?

We all know that water is essential for our bodies. But what if I told you that there are toxic chemicals that can contaminate our water supply? One of the most dangerous types of water contaminants is perfluorinated compounds. In particular, two of the most notorious PFCs are perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). In this blog, we'll be taking a closer look at PFOS and PFOA, their sources, health effects, and what you can do to reduce your exposure to these chemicals.

Introduction to PFOS and PFOA

PFOS and PFOA are both members of the family of PFCs, a group of man-made chemicals that were first developed in the 1940s. PFCs are used in a wide variety of consumer products, including non-stick cookware, food-packaging materials, firefighting foams, and more. PFOS and PFOA are two of the most common types of PFCs, and are both extremely persistent in the environment due to their chemical properties. In other words, these chemicals don't break down easily and can remain in the environment for long periods of time.

PFOS and PFOA are also highly toxic and can cause a range of adverse health effects, including cancer, liver damage, reproductive problems, and thyroid disorders. These chemicals can enter our bodies through ingestion, inhalation, and even skin contact. Unfortunately, PFOS and PFOA have been found in the water supplies of many communities across the United States, making them a serious public health concern.

Sources of PFOS and PFOA Contamination

The most common sources of PFOS and PFOA contamination in water supplies are industrial facilities that produce or use these chemicals, landfills, and military bases. Industrial facilities often release PFOS and PFOA into the environment through wastewater discharge, air emissions, and solid waste disposal. Landfills are also known to release these chemicals into the environment, and military bases often use PFOS-containing firefighting foam, which can also contaminate water supplies.

In addition, PFOS and PFOA can also enter our water supply through consumer products, such as non-stick cookware. When these products are heated, the PFOS and PFOA can break down into smaller particles and enter the air. These particles can then be carried by the wind and end up in our water supply.

Health Effects of PFOS and PFOA

As mentioned before, exposure to PFOS and PFOA can have a range of adverse health effects. These chemicals have been linked to cancer, liver damage, reproductive problems, and thyroid disorders. Studies have also shown that longterm exposure to PFOS and PFOA can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

In addition, exposure to PFOS and PFOA can also have an effect on the development of children. Studies have shown that prenatal exposure to these chemicals can lead to lower birth weight and impaired cognitive development. Therefore, it is especially important for pregnant women and children to be aware of their exposure to PFOS and PFOA.

Treatment Options for PFOS and PFOA

If your home water test results show that your water is contaminated with PFOS and PFOA, there are several treatment options available. The most common treatment option is a point-of-use filter. These filters are installed directly on your tap and are designed to remove PFOS and PFOA from your drinking water. You can also install a whole-house filtration system, which will filter all the water that enters your home.

Another option is to switch to bottled water for drinking and cooking. While this is a convenient option, it is not permanent solution, as bottled water can also be contaminated with PFOS and PFOA. Therefore, it is important to check the label of any bottled water to make sure that it does not contain any of these chemicals.

In summary, PFOS and PFOA are two of the most dangerous types of water contaminants, and can have a range of adverse health effects. These chemicals can enter our water supply through industrial facilities, landfills, and military bases, as well as through consumer products. It is important to be aware of the potential sources of PFOS and PFOA contamination in your area and to test your water for these contaminants. If your water is contaminated with PFOS and PFOA, there are treatment options available, such as point-of-use filters and bottled water. If you have questions about PFOS and PFOA, please give us a call at 1-888-292-5901.