Study reveals harmful PFOA chemical doubles in environment, urging broader research on thousands of similar PFAS chemicals.

Researchers at UNSW Sydney found that branched PFOA, a cancer-linked PFAS chemical, doubles in concentration in the environment over time, highlighting the need for more research on thousands of related chemicals. PFAS, found in household products and firefighting foam, do not break down easily. Australia monitors only three of the 14,000 PFAS chemicals, while the U.S. has set stricter limits for PFOA in drinking water. The Australian government is updating its guidelines and funding research to better understand health impacts and develop methods to break down PFAS.

November 25, 2024
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