Woven Warnings: The Hidden Dangers of “PFAS” in Our Fabrics
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of artificial chemicals used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1940s, including in fabrics used for clothing, furniture, and carpets. These chemicals repel oil and water, making them valuable for stain- and water-resistant products. However, scientific studies have raised concerns about their potential impacts on human health due to their persistence in the environment and the human body.
Research has indicated that PFAS can lead to several health issues. Animal studies, which often use higher doses of PFAS than humans are typically exposed to, have found that PFAS can cause liver and immune system damage, as well as low birth weight, congenital disabilities, delayed development, and even newborn deaths. It's important to note that the effects observed in animals may not directly translate to humans, but they provide valuable insights into potential health risks.
Humans can be exposed to PFAS through various channels, including contaminated drinking water, food, and soil, or using PFAS products. Once in the body, some PFAS compounds can accumulate over time. Health concerns linked to PFAS exposure in humans include reproductive issues, such as decreased fertility and increased high blood pressure during pregnancy; developmental delays in children; increased risks of certain cancers like prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers; reduced immune response; hormonal disruptions; and higher cholesterol levels.
The widespread use and environmental persistence of PFAS have led to their detection in most people in the United States, with varying levels of exposure based on factors such as occupation and proximity to sources of PFAS. Children and pregnant or lactating women may be particularly vulnerable due to their higher intake of water and food relative to body weight and the potential for in-utero or breastfeeding exposure.
Given the health concerns associated with PFAS, there's a growing interest in alternatives, such as organic or natural fabrics. These materials are derived from natural sources without synthetic chemicals and treatments, including those for stain or water resistance that might involve PFAS. The benefits of organic fabrics extend beyond the absence of PFAS, as they also avoid other potentially harmful chemicals used in conventional fabric production, offering a more environmentally friendly and possibly healthier option for consumers.
However, the transition to organic fabrics is not just a matter of avoiding PFAS; it involves broader sustainability considerations, environmental impact, and human health. As research into PFAS and their alternatives continues, consumers increasingly need to make informed choices about the products they use and the materials they wear.
For the most current information and research on PFAS, the health effects associated with their exposure, and ongoing efforts to understand and mitigate these risks, resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are invaluable.
References:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). "Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Your Health." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/index.html
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). "Basic Information on PFAS." https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). "Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/pfas/default.html
