Kidney cancer rates near Pfas factory in Lancashire a ‘major source of concern’
Summary
A study investigated kidney cancer rates near a factory in Lancashire that released a harmful chemical called PFOA from the 1950s to 2012. The study found higher-than-expected kidney cancer rates in two areas but concluded no clear link to the chemical exposure. Experts disagree, saying the findings need further investigation.Key Facts
- PFOA, a harmful chemical banned worldwide in 2020, was released by AGC Chemicals Europe’s factory near Blackpool for decades.
- About 49 tonnes of PFOA were emitted into the air between the 1950s and 2012.
- PFOA is part of PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” which do not break down in the environment and are linked to cancer.
- A government-backed study screened cancer rates from 2003 to 2022 within 5km of the factory.
- The study found higher than normal kidney cancer rates in two small areas but said there was no strong evidence to link them to the factory or chemical exposure.
- Independent scientists argue the study underplays the risk and call for more research because PFOA is known to cause kidney cancer.
- Residents near the factory were advised not to eat local fruit, vegetables, or eggs due to contamination.
- Part of the land around the factory was officially declared contaminated and an allotment was closed.
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