perfluorinated polymers | Healthy Child Healthy World

Description

Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) are a family of fluorinated organic compounds that are manufactured to give coatings like Teflon® and Scotchgard® their nonstick and water- and stain-repellent qualities. These coatings are used on cookware, carpets, clothing, shoes, bedding, mattresses and upholstered furniture. PFCs have also been used in food wraps, sprays for leather and shoes an, paints and cleaning products, shampoo, floor wax, dental floss and some cosmetics. (For a listing of products, see Environmental Working Group’s Shopper’s Guide to PFCs

PFCs are extremely persistent once they are released into the environment, accumulating in humans and wildlife. They can remain in human tissue for many years.

PFCs have fallen under scrutiny from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) since the late 1990s, when widespread low-level contamination was found in blood samples from the U.S. general population, in wildlife and in the environment.

In 2000, after reaching an agreement with EPA, 3M phased out production of Scotchgard products containing the PFC called perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). (3M introduced new formulations of Scotchgard without PFOS in 2003.) (OSF: http://www.ourstolenfuture.org/Commentary/News/2003/2003-0622-SJMN-scotchgardreturns.htm)

EPA is investigating a similar perfluorinated chemical, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA, also known as C8), the active ingredient in Teflon nonstick coatings. A preliminary report, issued January 2005, raises concerns that people may face risks of developmental and other adverse effects from low-level exposure to PFOA based on animal studies. (EPA Draft Risk Assessment)

EPA has also assessed fines against DuPont for hiding information and studies that linked potential health risks to its workers and communities surrounding its plants. (Washington Post)

Children may be exposed through normal use of PFC-coated products. In addition, nonstick pans heated at high temperatures may give off fumes. To avoid fumes, do not heat empty pans or use them in the oven.

Health Effects

Immediate Health Effects

If SWALLOWED, perfluorinated polymers is Not Available
If ABSORBED THROUGH SKIN, perfluorinated polymers is Not Available
If INHALED (SNIFFED OR BREATHED IN), perfluorinated polymers is Not Available

Longterm or Delayed Health Effects

This chemical is considered an Unclassifiable Carcinogen by the World Health Organization, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or another agency.
Suspected Endocrine Disruptor = May interfere with, mimic or block hormones

Other

At extremely high temperatures, nonstick cookware may release fumes that can cause flu-like symptoms known as “polymer fume fever.” These toxic fumes can kill pet birds. (EWG: Canaries)
Company tests have found higher cholesterol levels in workers occupationally exposed to PFOA. Elevated cholesterol is a risk factor for stroke and heart attack. (EPA draft, EWG)
There is some evidence PFOA causes cancer. In tests on animals, PFOA produced liver tumors. Tests on mice have shown that PFOA exposure also damages the immune system. (EPA exec summ)
Suspected hormone disruptors. Elevated levels of the thyroid hormone T3 were found in workers with higher PFOA levels in their blood. (EPA executive summary) PFOS may suppress both thyroid hormones, T3 and T4. (our stolen future http://www.ourstolenfuture.org/Basics/chemlist.htm)
Possibility of birth defects. Newborn rats prenatally exposed to PFOA had facial defects. Similar defects showed up in 2 of 5 babies born to DuPont plant employees in 1981.