Self-reported medical conditions in perfluorooctanesulfonyl fluoride manufacturing workers

J Occup Environ Med. 2007 Jul;49(7):722-9. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0b013e3180582043.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate whether some cancers, other conditions, and pregnancy outcomes were related to occupational perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) exposure.

Methods: We surveyed current and former employees of a perfluorooctanesulfonyl fluoride production facility, using a self-administered questionnaire to ascertain several cancers and health conditions. Female cohort members also completed a brief pregnancy history. We requested medical records to validate reported melanoma, breast, prostate, and colon cancers. PFOS exposure was estimated based on a job exposure matrix up to the year of the diagnosis of the condition.

Results: Of the 1,895 eligible participants, 1,400 questionnaires were returned. No association was observed between working in a PFOS-exposed job and the risk of any of the surveyed conditions.

Conclusion: We observed no association between working in a PFOS-exposed job and several cancers, common health conditions, and birth weight.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Alkanesulfonic Acids / poisoning*
  • Female
  • Fluorocarbons / poisoning*
  • Health Status*
  • Health Surveys
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Minnesota
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Self Disclosure*

Substances

  • Alkanesulfonic Acids
  • Fluorocarbons
  • perfluorooctane sulfonic acid