What Is PFOA and How Dangerous Is It?

What does PFOA stand for?

PFOA stands for Perfluorooctanoic Acid. It is a synthetic chemical developed decades ago for specialized industrial applications. The “perfluoro” portion means that the carbon backbone of the molecule is fully bonded to fluorine atoms, making the chemical extremely resistant to breakdown in natural environments. This high stability drove its popularity in several manufacturing processes.

Researchers who study PFAS often highlight two well-known examples from this category: PFOA and PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate). Both were commonly used for their nonstick and water-resistant properties. PFOA’s structure makes it difficult to degrade, which is why it persists in water, soil, and even in our bodies.

When we discuss “what is PFOA,” we focus on a substance that does not naturally occur and can remain intact for years. Its robust nature is also a key reason why it spreads easily across global ecosystems. According to the National Toxicology Program (NTP), PFOA—along with similar PFAS—can pose health risks, especially after prolonged or high-level exposure.

What was PFOA used for?

Manufacturers embraced PFOA for its chemical stability and surface-resistant qualities. Before environmental concerns gained traction, many industries saw PFOA as a perfect solution for producing:

1. Nonstick Coatings
   Many nonstick cookware and bakeware items, especially older products, used PFOA during the production process because it helped form a slick surface.

2. Stain-Resistant Carpeting and Fabrics
   Carpeting, textiles, and upholstery incorporated PFOA to repel stains and water. Products advertised for their stain resistance often relied on PFAS-based treatments.

3. Firefighting Foams
   Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) often contained PFAS, including PFOA, for rapid deployment during fuel fires. This foam is still found in some airports, military bases, and firefighting training sites.

4. Industrial Applications
   Factories used PFOA for metal plating, semiconductor manufacturing, and various processes requiring chemical stability at high temperatures.

Although PFOA was widely employed in these applications, attention shifted in the early 2000s after data indicated that it remained in human blood and was showing potential links to health issues. Companies such as 3M initiated voluntary phaseouts of PFOA-related products. By 2025, 3M plans to discontinue making PFAS and eliminate its use of fluoropolymers, fluorinated fluids, and additive products.

We recognize that modern formulations often replace PFOA with alternative shorter-chain PFAS. However, some experts, including those at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), note that these replacements may still pose complexities for human and environmental health. Ongoing studies attempt to determine whether the newer PFAS chemicals carry similar risks.

How are people exposed to PFOA?

PFOA can enter our bodies through multiple pathways, reflecting the broad use of PFAS across consumer and industrial landscapes. According to the CDC, several sources are common:

Drinking water

Water contamination is often cited as a leading route of exposure. Industrial discharge, landfill leachate, and firefighting foam usage can release PFOA into nearby surface or groundwater. If a public water system or private well draws from a contaminated source, residents may unknowingly ingest PFOA. Because PFOA does not easily break down, even small amounts can build up over time.

To learn more about how PFOA and related substances accumulate in water sources, see our page on pfas in drinking water. This page details how PFAS contamination can spread, along with steps for testing and treatment.

Food packaging and cookware

Many everyday products once relied on PFOA-based coatings. Paper plates, fast-food wrappers, and microwave popcorn bags sometimes contained PFAS-treated linings to prevent oil or moisture from seeping through. Nonstick cookware manufactured before companies phased out PFOA could also present a risk, especially if coatings are worn or overheating occurs.

Though the levels transferred into food can be small, repeated contact may make a difference. We can reduce this exposure by discarding older nonstick pans that show scratches or chips and by checking product labels for PFAS-free alternatives.

Household and industrial products

PFOA appeared in a variety of household and industrial items, including stain-repellent sprays, polishes, waxes, and cleaning agents. If products containing PFOA degrade over time or are disposed of improperly, traces of the chemical can end up in the environment. Industrial workers handling PFAS-bearing substances often face higher risks due to more direct contact and higher exposure levels.

Workplace exposure

Employees in certain industries may encounter airborne or dermal exposures to PFOA. Factories dealing with fluoropolymers, electronics manufacturing, or metal plating historically used PFOA in their production lines. According to the CDC, workers handling concentrated PFAS materials can have blood levels many times higher than the general population. Health agencies encourage workplaces to introduce adequate personal protective equipment and develop safety protocols for proper handling and disposal of PFAS.

Why is PFOA called a “forever chemical”?

Experts often label PFOA as a “forever chemical” because its chemical bonds resist natural breakdown processes in soil, water, and even within living organisms. In nature, most substances eventually degrade through microbial activity, sunlight, or chemical reactions. By contrast, the perfluorinated chains in PFOA remain stable. This stability allows it to migrate across vast distances and persist in the environment for years.

Furthermore, people and wildlife can accumulate PFOA through consistent low-level exposure, leading to higher internal levels than expected. Over time, this build-up may spur adverse health effects, which is why some researchers and regulators have taken action to mitigate PFOA’s continued presence. According to studies from the National Toxicology Program, PFOA can alter immune responses and disrupt normal endocrine functions.

Because PFOA can be found in water, air, soil, and commercial products, it is nearly impossible to avoid entirely. This is precisely why environmental scientists emphasize prevention and source control. If we reduce industrial discharge, phase out PFOA in manufacturing, and remediate existing pollution, we can gradually lower levels in the environment.

What are the health effects of PFOA exposure?

Researchers have been investigating PFOA for decades to understand its health impacts. The clinical picture is complex, partly because exposures vary widely. Some communities near industrial sites show higher incidences of disease, while others see only mild fluctuations in health parameters. Even so, health organizations like the NIEHS and the CDC agree that certain health effects are associated with prolonged or high-level PFOA exposure.

Cancer risk

One of the most concerning links is between PFOA and cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies PFOA as “carcinogenic to humans” (Group 1), citing evidence of tumor growth in lab animals and higher rates of specific cancers in exposed groups. Some studies point to possible links with testicular and kidney cancers.

On the other hand, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not officially classified PFOA as a human carcinogen. An EPA draft report notes “suggestive evidence of carcinogenicity,” but it stops short of declaring a definitive classification. Individuals worried about cancer risks related to PFAS can also refer to pfas and cancer for additional context.

Liver and kidney damage

Beyond cancer, sustained PFOA exposure may damage the liver and kidneys. Lab tests show evidence of elevated liver enzymes, indicating potential liver stress or reduced liver function. In workers with high exposure, some studies found slight shifts in cholesterol levels and kidney function. Although more research is needed to confirm causation, consistent patterns in observational data raise valid concerns.

Thyroid disease

Studies suggest PFOA could affect thyroid hormone regulation. Disruption in thyroid hormones may alter metabolism, mood, and body temperature. Observational research has reported an association between PFAS exposure and higher rates of hypothyroidism, though results vary by population. We encourage those with known thyroid conditions to monitor potential aggravating factors and consult an endocrinologist, especially if they live or work near known PFAS contamination areas.

Immune and reproductive system effects

The National Toxicology Program found that PFOA and PFOS “pose a hazard to immune system function.” Specifically, exposure could suppress antibody production, making adults and children more susceptible to infections. On the reproductive front, data indicates possible complications such as reduced fertility or pregnancy-related effects. Some mothers with elevated PFAS levels have reported concerns about birth outcomes, though ongoing research aims to clarify the exact mechanisms.

For more information on broader PFAS health considerations, see our page on pfas health effects. There, we note emerging research sources and potential ways to minimize exposure risks for vulnerable groups.

How common is PFOA in the U.S.?

According to the CDC’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, nearly all Americans tested had small but detectable levels of various PFAS, including PFOA. Factors such as geography, occupation, and local water sources can influence an individual’s PFOA burden. Industrial communities, particularly those near chemical plants or disposal sites, tend to showcase higher averages. Firefighting training facilities also present elevated local contamination due to the historic use of firefighting foam.

Nationally, levels of older PFAS like PFOA and PFOS have dropped since the early 2000s, thanks to partial phaseouts by major chemical manufacturers. Still, new-generation PFAS chemicals can appear in consumer products, making it hard to measure total exposure. Some states regularly track contamination hotspots and publish data online. You can check resources like a pfas contamination map or state-level environmental agency portals for near-real-time updates on your area.

Despite decreasing PFOA production, legacy contamination remains a challenge. The robust nature of these chemicals, combined with decades of use, means that many water systems and landfills still contain PFOA. Federal grants and state programs are gradually testing wells, upgrading treatment technology, and monitoring local ecosystems.

Has PFOA been banned or regulated?

In the United States, PFOA is not universally banned, but several regulatory measures surround it. The EPA has established legally enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for PFOA and related PFAS in drinking water. In April 2024, the agency finalized National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for six types of PFAS, including PFOA. According to the EPA, these regulations aim to prevent illnesses and deaths linked to PFAS exposure in the water supply.

Key steps in U.S. regulation and phaseout:

• In 2000, 3M voluntarily began phasing out certain long-chain PFAS such as PFOA.

• By the end of 2025, 3M plans to stop manufacturing all PFAS, including PFOA.

• The EPA’s new MCLs require systems to monitor PFOA levels and, if necessary, adopt methods to meet permissible limits.

• Additional funding and technical support are available to communities through federal initiatives like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Some states have stronger standards than federal guidelines, setting their own MCLs for PFAS. Others have launched extensive monitoring programs, especially for waste facilities or firefighting foam usage. Because PFAS exist in thousands of forms, regulators also discuss a group-based approach to address these substances collectively. If you would like more insights into liability issues companies may face for contamination, refer to pfas liability.

Internationally, entities like the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the Canadian government have implemented bans or restrictions on PFOA, PFOA-related substances, and some long-chain PFAS. The European Union’s REACH regulation may enact sweeping restrictions affecting imports of PFAS-containing products. This global patchwork of rules underscores the broad recognition that PFOA and related PFAS pose significant health and environmental questions.

Can you test for PFOA in water or blood?

Yes. Water testing for PFOA, PFOS, and other PFAS typically involves sending samples to specialized laboratories accredited in PFAS analysis. Many states publish lists of certified testing facilities or direct you to a pfas testing lab. Residents who rely on private wells may be eligible for subsidized testing through state programs. Public water systems must comply with EPA regulations and often share testing results on water quality reports.

Blood testing for PFOA is also possible but is less common. Commercial labs can measure PFAS blood levels, though these tests can be expensive and may require a doctor’s order. It is also important to note that learning your PFAS level rarely pinpoints when or exactly where you were exposed. However, for individuals with high-risk exposures—such as firefighters, chemical plant workers, or residents near known contamination—testing can serve to track changes over time.

When evaluating test results, consider:

• Laboratory detection limits (lower detection limits might reveal more accurate PFAS estimates).

• Comparison to national averages (helps place your results in context).

• Continued monitoring if contamination is ongoing.

People seeking to treat contaminated water often explore specialized filters, such as activated carbon or reverse osmosis. For details, see our guides on pfoa water filter and does reverse osmosis remove pfas.

What can you do if you’ve been exposed?

Navigating PFOA exposure can be overwhelming, especially when facing potential health concerns. We suggest these steps for individuals who suspect significant exposure:

1. Consult with Healthcare Providers
   Share your concerns with a healthcare professional familiar with environmental health. If you live in or near an affected area, mention the possibility of higher PFOA exposure and discuss blood testing if appropriate.

2. Test Your Water
   If you get water from a private well or suspect your municipal supply may be contaminated, reach out to certified labs for PFAS testing. The EPA’s consumer information site includes guidance on sampling and local resources.

3. Consider Treatment Technologies
   Methods such as activated carbon filtration or reverse osmosis systems can reduce PFOA in drinking water. See our resource on pfas water filter for an overview of filter types. Depending on the severity of contamination, a system-wide upgrade might be necessary.

4. Stay Informed
   Monitor local advisories or newly published water quality reports that confirm updated PFOA levels in your community. Regulatory standards may shift, prompting changes in guidelines or recommended actions.

5. Explore Legal Options
   If you suspect harm or property damage linked to PFOA contamination, you may wish to consult a lawyer specializing in environmental or personal injury cases. Our team encourages you to explore legal information about PFAS lawsuits by visiting this page: PFAS Lawsuit at Legal Claim Assistant. You can learn about the process for filing claims and whether you could be eligible for compensation.

On a broader level, collective action helps address the root causes of contamination. Communities often advocate for stricter regulation, corporate accountability, and increased investment in remediation. Public comment periods on proposed EPA or state regulations allow you to share concerns and help shape future policy on PFOA and other PFAS compounds.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Below are common questions we receive about PFOA. They address the concerns of individuals considering personal health and environmental safety.

Is PFOA the same as Teflon?

PFOA was historically used in the manufacturing process for many nonstick coatings, including those branded as Teflon. However, PFOA itself is not identical to Teflon. Modern formulations advertised as PFOA-free aim to reduce or eliminate residual PFOA in finished goods.

Does boiling water remove PFOA?

No. Traditional boiling does not remove PFOA. Because of PFOA’s high stability, boiling could concentrate the chemical further by evaporating some of the water. Specialized filtration, such as activated carbon or reverse osmosis, is more effective.

How long does PFOA stay in the body?

PFOA has a relatively long half-life in humans. Studies suggest it can stay in the body for several years. Exact timelines depend on factors such as overall health, level of exposure, and metabolism.

Are there alternatives to PFOA in consumer products?

Yes. Many companies have shifted to alternative PFAS or different chemistries altogether. However, some replacement PFAS may have similar persistence, and research is ongoing regarding their safety profile. Checking product labels and verifying “PFAS-free” certifications can help reduce exposure.

How can I learn about PFOA levels in my area?

We recommend visiting federal or state environmental agency websites, which often post local or statewide data. You can also consult a pfas contamination map or your local water authority’s annual water quality report.

Is there financial help for reducing PFOA in my home?

Some states and the federal government offer funding for water testing or treatment system installation. For instance, the EPA announced $1 billion in available funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to help states address PFAS contamination. Consult your local government’s environmental department for possible grants or low-interest loans.

If I have PFOA in my blood, am I guaranteed to get sick?

Detectable levels of PFOA do not guarantee illness. Much depends on the duration and intensity of exposure, as well as individual health factors. Still, elevated levels warrant attention to possible health indicators, and you may want to follow up with healthcare professionals for monitoring.

Where can I go for legal advice if I think PFOA harmed my health?

We encourage you to review information at PFAS Lawsuit at Legal Claim Assistant for guidance. You can learn about next steps and whether you may be eligible for a free case review.