Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAs)

Why in news?

• A study has found that rainwater from many places across the globe is contaminated with “per and polyfluoroalkyl substances” (PFAs) which are called “forever chemicals” because of their tendency to stick around in the atmosphere, rainwater and soil for long periods of time.

What are per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs)?

• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of human-made chemicals used in a wide range of consumer and industrial products.
• It is used to make nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant fabrics, cosmetics, firefighting forms and many other products that resist grease, water and oil.
• PFAs can migrate to the soil, water and air during their production and use.
• Since most PFAs do not break down, they remain in the environment for long periods of time.
• Some of these PFAs can build up in people and animals if they are repeatedly exposed to the chemicals.

What harm do PFAs cause?

• The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists a variety of health risks that are attributed to PFA exposure including decreased fertility, developmental effects in children, interference with body hormones, increased cholesterol levels and increased risk of some cancers.
• Recent research has also revealed that long-term low-level exposure to certain PFAs can make it difficult for humans to build antibodies after being vaccinated against various diseases.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of human-made chemicals used in a wide range of consumer and industrial products. Which of the following statements are correct regarding PFAs?

1. PFAS do not easily breakdown and some types have been shown to accumulate in the environment and in our bodies.

2. Exposure to some types PFAS have been linked to serious health effects.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

                     C

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