Self-Reported Health Effects among Community Residents Exposed to Perfluorooctanoate

Abstract

Serious health effects due to perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) exposure are suspected. The aim of this study was to evaluate the health status of nearby residents, with prolonged exposure to PFOA in their drinking water. A population of 566 white residents who were plaintiffs or potential plaintiffs in a lawsuit was evaluated by questionnaire for health history and symptoms. Standardized Prevalence Ratios were estimated using National Health and Examination Survey (NHANES) data files for comparison rates. The exposed subjects reported statistically significant greater prevalence of angina, myocardial infarction, and stroke (SPR=8.07, 95% C.I.=6.54-9.95; SPR=1.91, 95% C.I.=1.40-2.62, and SPR=2.17, 95% C.I.=1.47-3.21, respectively), chronic bronchitis, shortness of breath on stairs, asthma (SPR=3.60, 95% C.I.=2.92-4.44; SPR=2.05, 95% C.I.=1.70-2.46; SPR=1.82, 95% C.I.=1.47-2.25, respectively), and other serious health problems. The increased prevalence of adverse health effects may be due to PFOA. Further study is needed.