Blood tests find high level of cancer-causing forever chemical in residents near factory
Summary
Blood tests show that many people living near a chemical factory in Thornton-Cleveleys, Lancashire, have very high levels of a cancer-causing chemical called PFOA in their blood. This chemical, used by the nearby AGC Chemicals factory until 2012, is part of a group called forever chemicals that do not easily break down and can harm health.Key Facts
- PFOA is a type of forever chemical that can cause cancer and was banned in the UK in 2020.
- The AGC Chemicals factory near Thornton-Cleveleys used PFOA to make coatings for frying pans until 2012.
- Blood tests on 49 local residents showed many had high levels of PFOA.
- Soil, eggs, and vegetables near the factory have tested positive for PFOA contamination.
- Two local garden allotment sites have been closed due to contamination and will be classified as contaminated land.
- Residents within 1km of the factory are advised to peel any fruit or vegetables grown in their gardens.
- UK health authorities do not currently recommend blood testing for PFAS chemicals because results may not clearly help individuals.
- Independent blood tests were done by Manchester Metropolitan University and paid for by environmental groups.
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