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At EWG, our team of scientists, engineers, policy experts, lawyers and computer programmers pores over government data, legal documents, scientific studies and our own laboratory tests to expose threats to your health and the environment, and to find solutions. Our research brings to light unsettling facts that you have a right to know.

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Chemical Families

Perfluorochemicals (PFCs)

Polyfluorinated chemicals are widely used as water, stain and grease repellants for food wrap, carpet, furniture, and clothing that have been detected in adults, newborns, and wildlife all around the globe. They persist in the body for decades, acting through a broad range of toxic mechanisms to present potential harm to a wide range of organs. EWG's work has resulted in an international phaseout effort and court victories against major manufacturers.

EWG Research on Chemicals in Perfluorochemicals (PFCs)


Related News Clips on Chemicals in Perfluorochemicals (PFCs)


Health Effects related to Perfluorochemicals (PFCs): Brain and nervous system, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Cancer, Reproduction and fertility, Birth or developmental effects, Persistent and bioaccumulative, Biochemical or cellular level changes, Immune system (including sensitization and allergies), Infertility, reproductive toxin

Routes of Exposure related to Perfluorochemicals (PFCs):

  • Consumer products: carpets, clothing
  • Environment: industrial water pollution, nuclear transport, nuclear waste, rain
  • Food: food packaging, fruits, popcorn, vegetables
  • Found in people
  • Miscellaneous: manufacturing, medical, occupational
  • Water: sewage sludge, tap water

Related Chemicals

pfosaa, pfhs, pfba (perfluorobutyric acid), pfosa (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid), pfpea (perfluoro-n-pentanoic acid), pfta (perfluorotetradecanoic acid), pfbs (perfluorobutane sulfonate), pfuna (perfluoroundecanoic acid), pfda (perfluorodecanoic acid), pfdoa (perfluorododecanoic acid), view all...