March 19, 2025
Many of the things that make our lives easier may also carry serious health risks. One prime example are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances known as PFAS. These chemicals have been widely used to manufacture clothing, food containers, and other products and equipment resistant to grease, water and stains.
The problem with PFAS? You may also have heard them called “forever chemicals” because they take so long to break down. They have been found in soil, water, and blood samples from humans and animals. The FDA has linked them to serious health concerns, and recent reporting by ProPublica indicates that 3M has known about the health risks for decades.
The History of ‘Forever Chemicals’
PFAS are a group of chemicals known for their resistance to water, grease, oil and heat.
The first, polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFA), was created in the 1930s by German chemists Fritz Schloffer and Otto Sherer. DuPont trademarked polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), more commonly known as Teflon, in 1945. Also in 1945, 3M began producing perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). 3M scientists Patsy Sherman and Samuel Smith discovered perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) in 1953. Teflon and PFOA became a common component of nonstick pans, among other products, and PFOS was long used in stain protectors such as Scotchgard.
Early adopters of these chemicals were excited about the possibilities. An article in a 1952 issue of Popular Mechanics stated:
“Consider, for example, the possibility of a lifetime lubricant sealed into your car engine; a house paint that just plain refuses to permit your home to bum down; pots and pans that literally push away scorched foods; detergents so effective a grease monkey’s overalls will come clean in a few swishes.”
Because of these potential benefits, PFAS entered wide use in manufacturing equipment, medical equipment and consumer products.
3M Knew of the Dangers of PFAS
Propublica reported that 3M scientists learned that PFAS were highly toxic in the 1970s when the company conducted animal experiments. A low daily dose was found to kill a monkey within a few weeks. The chemicals were found in the livers of the animals studied and in blood samples obtained from blood banks. The results of these studies were kept secret, even from many who worked at 3M.
Later studies by 3M scientists and academics found that PFAS remain in the human body, but these findings were questioned by 3M, and there is evidence that 3M lawyers asked scientists to keep their findings under wraps. When findings were publicized, 3M executives downplayed the risks and kept internal research showing the toxicity secret, according to the Propublica report.
More recently, PFAS have been linked to some cancers, low birth weight, pregnancy complications, increased cholesterol levels, liver dysfunction, hormone disruption, lowered effectiveness of vaccines, and other health issues. And research confirms that virtually every human tested has PFAS present in their bloodstream.
What Can Be Done about PFAS Now?
In April 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized PFAS as hazardous and imposed limits on contamination in drinking water.
“It’s long past time for the polluters who poisoned all of us to be held responsible. This comes too late for all the people who were poisoned without their knowledge or consent and have paid the price for one of the greatest environmental crimes in history,” said Ken Cook, President and co-founder of Environmental Working Group. “But today’s designation of PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances is the first step to bring justice to those who have been harmed. By putting the needs of the people ahead of the profits of the polluters, the … EPA is once again delivering for the American people.”
How Do We Fight Corporate Negligence?
Seek justice with the help of our experienced attorneys. We’ve battled corporate giants on behalf of individuals like you for 20 years, aggressively fighting those responsible for personal injury and wrongful death caused by corporate wrongdoing and fraud committed against the government. If you’ve suffered catastrophic injury or loss caused by corporate negligence or believe you have a government whistleblower case, we can help. Contact is kept confidential.
Our Results
Historic settlement for over 1,300 survivors of clergy and adult abuse within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles, marking a pivotal moment for justice.
A Philadelphia jury awarded a record verdict against ExxonMobil for failing to warn about cancer risks due to benzene in its petroleum products.
Private equity firm and co-defendants agree to pay $25M in Medicaid fraud case alleging mental health services provided by unqualified providers.
That’s the first question everyone asks. The truth is it’s impossible to know. But we can tell you this. Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel has what it takes to fight against big corporate interests and win.
