Profile of the Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Health Study: Exposure to and health risks of environmental PFAS contamination in Australian communities

Abstract

The extensive distribution of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has led to concerns about environmental and human health impacts. Risk assessments of contaminated areas in Australia have evaluated PFAS exposure pathways but have not quantified PFAS exposure levels in affected communities or the associated health risks. The PFAS Health Study aims to investigate multiple aspects of the PFAS exposure pathway, including the environmental and behavioural factors that influence PFAS body burdens, as well as health outcomes and concerns associated with PFAS exposure. We conducted a cross-sectional study of current and former residents and workers of three Australian communities affected by environmental PFAS contamination−Williamtown in New South Wales, Oakey in Queensland and Katherine in the Northern Territory−and three comparison communities. This Study included biomonitoring and a self-administered survey. The findings will guide our understanding of the determinants of PFAS exposure, associations with self-reported psychosocial or physical health outcomes and concerns, and actions that residents have taken in PFAS affected communities to reduce their exposure. The study design was informed by a systematic review of the health effects of PFAS exposure and a qualitative study of the health and social concerns of people living in Australian communities affected by environmental PFAS contamination. This study will produce knowledge to assist affected communities in understating the impact, if any, of PFAS exposure on their health and to aid policy makers in responding to PFAS contamination issues. The PFAS Health Study is the first of its kind in Australia and will add to the body of international literature around the effects of environmental PFAS exposure on human health.