PFOA has been extensively studied in an occupational setting where potential exposure can be significantly higher than that of the general population.

Occupational exposure to PFOA has been associated with small increases in some lipids (e.g. cholesterol).  It is not known whether these are causal associations.  These associations were not observed in a community study. 

Based on health and toxicological studies, DuPont believes the weight of evidence indicates that PFOA exposure does not pose a health risk to the general public. 

To date, there are no human health effects known to be caused by PFOA, although study of the chemical continues.

Regulatory agencies statements on human health:

“EPA has no information linking current levels of PFOA in the blood of the general public to any adverse health effects in people.  Additional study is still needed to understand these persistent chemicals.  While information is being developed, EPA is taking the prudent step of seeking to reduce possible sources now, to avoid potentially larger future problems."

Non-ECA PFOA Information Forum, U.S. EPA, Washington, DC June 8, 2006

“Although our risk assessment activities are not complete and new data may change the current picture, to date EPA is not aware of any studies specifically relating current levels of PFOA exposure to human health effects.”

U.S. EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson, Letter to DuPont, Jan. 25, 2006

"The agency has information based on animal studies and toxic effects in animals, [but] we have no information at this point that would lead us to believe there is a significant human health impact.“

Susan Hazen, Acting Administrator of EPA Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances, Dec. 14, 2005

“Studies have not shown any effects directly associated with PFOA exposure.”

Dr. Jennifer Seed, EPA Risk Assessment Division Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Aug. 19, 2005