Exposure to firefighting foam and PFAS have resulted in an increased risk for prostate cancer, other cancers, and multiple health problems.
According to the National Cancer Institute, PFOA and other per-fluorinated chemicals may be associated with an increased risk for prostate cancer incidence and mortality.
Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland start to grow out of control. The prostate is a gland found only in males. Most prostate cancers are adenocarcinomas, developing from gland cells.
Symptoms of prostate cancer may include the following:
- Trouble urinating
- Decreased force in the stream of urine
- Blood in the urine
- Blood in the semen
- Bone pain
- Losing weight without trying
- Erectile dysfunction
More Research On PFAS Chemicals And Cancer Risk
Studies have shown that certain PFAS chemicals, such as PFOA and PFOS, can increase the risk of certain cancers.
- A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found a statistically significant association between PFOA exposure and an increased risk of kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and ulcerative colitis.
- Another study published in the International Journal of Cancer found a positive association between PFOS exposure and breast cancer.
- The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified PFOA as a possible carcinogen, and PFOS as possibly carcinogenic to humans.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a health advisory for PFOA and PFOS, stating that long-term exposure to these chemicals above certain levels could be harmful to human health.
The evidence linking PFAS exposure to cancer is concerning, and further research is needed to fully understand the potential health effects of these chemicals.
