Childhood Cancers From PFAS and Other Toxic Chemicals on the Rise

In the last half-century, there has been a 35% increase in childhood cancers, even though cancers in older people have been on the decline. Many doctors and scientists believe microplastics and synthetic chemicals like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) may be to blame, contributing to rising rates of cancer and other chronic health conditions.

Since 1950, the use of these synthetic “forever chemicals” has increased dramatically, yet only a small fraction have been tested for toxicity. PFAS substances can be found in the air, water systems, food, and products like firefighting foam (AFFF), causing widespread concern.

The medical community is recommending measures to reduce children’s exposure to these environmental toxins, including new laws that require chemicals to be tested for safety before entering the market. They also suggest “chemical footprinting” to measure and reduce chemical exposure.

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Why Are American Children at Risk?

Children are particularly vulnerable to PFAS-related cancers and illnesses because their organs are not fully developed to filter out toxins, and they are more likely to ingest objects containing synthetic plastics.

Specific chemicals like BPA and PFAS can disrupt hormone production and potentially contribute to fertility issues as children age into adulthood.

Studies have also found links between mothers exposed to heavy metals like arsenic and PFAS during pregnancy and increased cancer risk in their children.

Currently, the United States lags behind Europe in regulating chemicals. For example, Europe has strict regulations against chemicals called phthalates, which are used in food packaging and cosmetic products.

PFAS & Childhood Cancer Rates

Due to the prevalence of PFAS in thousands of common products, exposure, many believe, may be unavoidable in 2025, with the blood of most Americans already testing positive.

Higher levels of PFAS in your blood can cause dozens of different cancers, with the risks being more severe for younger children. Children could potentially develop cancers like leukemia and lymphoma from exposure to PFAS.

PFAS may contribute to childhood cancer rates in several ways:

• Exposure during pregnancy: A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that mothers exposed to forever chemicals during pregnancy had an increased risk of their children developing PFAS leukemia.
• PFAS properties and exposure routes: PFAS are microscopic substances that repel water and oil. They are used in many everyday products like nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, and fast food packaging. These chemicals can seep into water supplies and enter food.
• General toxicity and children’s vulnerability: Children’s central nervous systems are more sensitive to environmental toxins during the early stages of life. Younger children are also more likely to put toys and other objects laced with synthetic plastics in their mouths, increasing their exposure.

What’s even worse is that a number of goods marketed specifically for children have been found to contain high levels of PFAS, like backpacks, clothes, shoes, raincoats, sleeping bags, and more. However, PFAS-free rain jackets for kids and other safer products are now available.

Parents can help protect their children by purchasing PFAS-free kids backpacks, clothes, toys, and other items.

Fighting for PFAS Cancer Victims

The rising rates of childhood cancer and other health issues linked to toxic chemicals like PFAS highlight the urgent need for stricter regulations and safer alternatives.

While completely avoiding PFAS exposure may be difficult, parents can take steps to reduce risks by choosing PFAS-free kids clothes and other products, as well as advocating for stronger chemical safety laws.

As more research uncovers the harmful effects of these substances, it’s critical for everyone to work together to minimize exposure and protect future generations.

If you or a loved one has suffered a PFAS-related cancer, LawFirm.com may be able to help. Our network of PFAS lawyers is standing by ready to assist families in all 50 states.

Call (888) 726-9160 right now or fill out our contact form to take the first step toward justice.