Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
Extracted from: Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances | Health.mil
What are PFAS?
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of man-made chemicals used in many industrial and consumer products worldwide. In the U.S., the most common types are perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA).
Why are PFAS used?
PFAS are not unique to Department of Defense (DoD) activities. These substances have been used since the 1950s in various industries because they resist, heat, stains, water, and grease.
Why are PFAS a concern?
PFAS do not occur naturally and do not breakdown easily. They can be found in people, the environment, wildlife, and fish worldwide. Some PFAS can build up in the body over time. Scientists continue to study these substances and the health effects of their exposure.
Learn More
Public health professionals are actively studying PFAS. Read more about the
DoD's response to PFAS from the Military Health System.
Contact Information
To request our services:
- Complete the
Mission Service Request (MSR)
AND
- Email us at: dha.ncr.dha-ops.mbx.dha-ops-center@health.mil
In the MSR Subject field, please select Industrial Hygiene or
Toxicology. If you have a point of contact (POC) name, please include it in the request.
Please include these keywords in the MSR request field and email:
- DCPH-A
- Occupational Health Sciences (OHS)
- Industrial Hygiene Field Services (IHFS)
- Toxicology (TOX)
