Testing reveals alarming PFOA levels in blood near Thornton-Cleveleys chemical factory
Category: Health
Residents of Thornton-Cleveleys, Lancashire, are facing a health crisis as alarming levels of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a carcinogenic "forever chemical," have been detected in their blood. According to the law firm Leigh Day, which is representing the affected residents, 49 individuals were tested, and 69% of them exhibited elevated PFOA levels, raising serious concerns about their long-term health.
PFOA is classified as a carcinogen and is part of the broader group of chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals have earned the nickname "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment and the human body, leading to potential health risks that can last a lifetime. The residents of Thornton-Cleveleys live in close proximity to the Hillhouse chemical manufacturing site, which utilized PFOA until its use was discontinued in 2012. The site was operated by ICI Chemicals until 1992 and is currently managed by AGC Chemicals.
The alarming blood test results were revealed by Leigh Day, which has been collaborating with Dr. Dave Megson from Manchester Metropolitan University and Watershed Investigations to assess the chemical pollution in the area. The tests indicated that 69% of those tested had PFOA levels exceeding 20 nanograms per millilitre, with an average concentration of 26 nanograms per millilitre. These findings have raised concerns about potential health issues, including high cholesterol and various cancers.
In response to these findings, the Environment Agency has intensified its investigation into the Hillhouse site to understand the extent of contamination and any associated health risks. Residents have been advised to exercise caution when consuming home-grown produce, leading to the temporary closure of two local allotments. This precautionary measure highlights the serious implications of the contamination for the community, which is now grappling with the potential health effects and restrictions on their food sources.
AGC Chemicals Europe, Ltd., the current operator of the site, acknowledged the residents' concerns but emphasized that the UK government's position is that PFAS blood testing does not predict future health problems. A spokesperson for the company stated, "For these reasons, PFAS biomonitoring is not currently recommended through the NHS or private blood tests." They also noted that the site has a long history of chemical manufacturing, which complicates the assessment of current risks.
Sarah Moore, a partner at Leigh Day, expressed the gravity of the situation, calling the test results "hugely concerning". She urged the government to take decisive action against PFAS contamination, stating that the Thornton-Cleveleys community is "paying the price" for the historical use of these chemicals. Moore highlighted that residents are facing potential health risks and experiencing restrictions on their ability to grow and consume local produce, which could impact their quality of life and property values.
The investigation into the Hillhouse site has been a multi-agency effort, with the Environment Agency working alongside local authorities to determine the nature and extent of contamination. The findings from the blood tests have raised alarms for the residents directly affected and for public health advocates who are concerned about the widespread use of PFAS in various industries.
PFAS, including PFOA, have been used in a variety of applications, from non-stick cookware to water-resistant fabrics, leading to their ubiquitous presence in the environment. The ban on PFOA in Britain in 2020 was a response to growing evidence linking these chemicals to serious health issues, including cancer. The World Health Organization has classified PFOA as a Group 1 carcinogen, indicating that there is sufficient evidence to conclude that it poses risks to human health.
The Thornton-Cleveleys community's experience serves as a stark reminder of the long-term consequences of industrial pollution and the importance of regulatory measures to protect public health. As investigations continue, residents are left to grapple with the uncertainty of their health and the safety of their environment.
Looking ahead, the Environment Agency is expected to provide updates on their findings and the next steps in addressing the contamination. The community remains vigilant, awaiting answers and action from both regulatory bodies and the government to mitigate the risks posed by these harmful chemicals.
As this situation develops, the residents of Thornton-Cleveleys are not just confronting the immediate health implications of elevated PFOA levels but also advocating for a future where such contamination is prevented. The outcome of this investigation could set important precedents for how similar cases are handled across the country.