Experts suggest that navigating life without PFAs and their unknown effects is more challenging than living with them.
Experts Offer Guidance on Reducing Exposure to Persistent Chemicals in Everyday Life
Efforts are underway to explore methods to filter out these persistent chemicals from our daily routines.
UMass Epidemiology Professor Katherine Reeves highlights the ubiquity of chemicals, stating, “Chemicals are everywhere and we often don’t know when we’re being exposed to them.”
Perfluorinated compounds, or PFAs, were developed in the 1930s as a wartime tool and soon recognized for their utility. By 1945, DuPont had trademarked PFAs as “Teflon,” incorporating them into mass production. These chemicals are now found in various heat, oil, stain, grease, and water-resistant products, leading to their widespread presence in the environment.
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UMass researcher Christian Guzman has focused on how PFAs are transported through the atmosphere, explaining, “It’s really interesting that it’s being transported from the sky down to the soil. We’re trying to quantify these levels and assess their impact on people here.”
According to UMass experts, simple household filters, like a Brita, can help remove PFAs from rainwater that becomes drinking water. Dr. Reeves is studying the public health impacts of these compounds and advises, “Limiting your exposure to chemicals like PFAs, phthalates, BPA, and parabens is reasonable. Opt for products labeled ‘paraben-free’ and ‘phthalate-free’ without stressing too much.”
Small habit changes, such as using paper instead of plastic for reheating food, can reduce exposure to harmful plastics. Intentional shopping can help you avoid products containing PFAs.
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Websites like pfascentral.org list PFAs-free products and companies. Dr. Dave Reckhow, an expert on these compounds, reassures consumers, “There are always good alternative products. While they may not be in widespread production, they can be ramped up to replace commercial and domestic products that use PFAs. However, medical science presents a greater challenge.”
According to Reeves, small changes are sufficient; a complete lifestyle overhaul isn’t necessary. Shopping from brands like Ralph Lauren, Levi’s, or H&M ensures your clothing is PFAs-free. PFAs-free items also include IKEA home products, Chick-Fil-A packaging, and certain Johnson & Johnson dental products. When shopping, check for unfamiliar chemicals, especially those with the root “fluor,” as they likely contain PFAs.
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Reeves advises, “If a product is labeled ‘paraben-free’ or ‘phthalate-free,’ I’m more likely to choose it, but I don’t stress about occasionally consuming soup from a can or drinking water from a plastic bottle.”
Dr. Reeves also recommends maintaining an active lifestyle to counter potential illnesses associated with PFAs exposure.
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