PFOA

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a synthetic fluorinated carboxylic acid and a member of the broader PFAS family. It is used as a processing aid in the manufacture of fluoropolymers, including polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and appears in various fluorinated coatings for non-stick cookware, textiles, paper, and other consumer products. PFOA and related substances are valued for their resistance to heat, water, and oil, but their persistence in the environment is a concern.

PFOA is highly persistent in air, water, and soil and can accumulate in living organisms. It has a long biological half-life in humans, measured in years. Human exposure occurs mainly through contaminated drinking water, certain food contacts, household dust, and consumer products that contain PFAS residues. In animals, PFOA can cause developmental, liver, and immune effects; human studies have suggested associations with cholesterol levels, thyroid function, immune responses, pregnancy outcomes, and some cancers, though causation has not been firmly established.

Regulation and policy: In 2006, eight major manufacturers joined an EPA stewardship program to reduce global emissions and product content of PFOA by 2010, with substantial reductions reported by 2015. In the United States, the EPA has issued drinking water health advisories for PFOA and PFOS (70 parts per trillion) and continues to pursue PFAS regulation. Many states and other countries have adopted limits or monitoring programs for PFAS and seek to reduce exposure and use of these substances.

Ongoing research and monitoring focus on exposure pathways, health effects, and safer alternatives, as well as remediation and long-term management of PFAS-contaminated environments.