Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in a variety of industrial and consumer products since the 1950s. These substances are valued for their water and grease resistance properties, making them useful in products like non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, food packaging, and firefighting foams. However, the same properties that make PFAS useful also contribute to their persistence in the environment and the human body, leading to them being dubbed “forever chemicals.”
PFAS are a concern because of their widespread presence and potential health risks. Studies have shown that exposure to certain PFAS can lead to adverse health effects, including liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, and an increased risk of cancer. PFAS contamination has been detected in water, soil, and air, as well as in the blood of people and animals around the world.
In response to these concerns, the Government of Canada is taking action to manage and reduce the risks associated with PFAS. Health Canada is actively working to gather information on the presence and effects of PFAS, assess their risks, and develop regulatory measures to control their use. This includes efforts to phase out the use of specific PFAS, promote safer alternatives, and reduce environmental releases.
The government’s approach also involves collaboration with international partners, as PFAS contamination is a global issue. By addressing PFAS as a class of chemicals, Canada aims to protect both human health and the environment from the long-term impacts of these persistent substances. For more detailed information on the ongoing efforts and regulatory actions related to PFAS, you can visit the Health Canada webpage.
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