Perfluoradas

Perfluoradas, also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a wide variety of industrial and consumer products since the 1940s. Their unique properties, such as water and grease resistance, have led to their inclusion in items like non-stick cookware, food packaging, stain-repellent fabrics, and firefighting foams. The strong carbon-fluorine bonds that give PFAS their desirable characteristics also make them extremely persistent in the environment and in the human body, leading to concerns about their potential health effects.

These chemicals do not break down easily, earning them the nickname "forever chemicals." As a result, they can accumulate in the environment, contaminating soil, water, and air. Exposure to PFAS can occur through various pathways, including drinking contaminated water, consuming food that has come into contact with PFAS, and using products containing these substances. Research has linked PFAS exposure to a range of adverse health outcomes, including effects on the immune system, liver, thyroid, and an increased risk of certain cancers.

Due to their widespread use and persistence, PFAS are found globally. Efforts are underway by regulatory bodies and researchers to better understand the risks associated with PFAS and to develop strategies for their reduction, remediation, and eventual replacement with safer alternatives. This includes monitoring their presence in the environment and in human populations, as well as establishing guidelines and regulations for their use and disposal.