Lancashire residents test high for cancer-causing PFOA

Blood tests conducted on 49 residents of Thornton-Cleveleys, Lancashire, have revealed high levels of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a cancer-causing ‘forever chemical’. Approximately 69 per cent of those tested fell into a high-risk category, with an average concentration of 26 nanograms per millilitre.

The testing project was organized by law firm Leigh Day in collaboration with experts from Manchester Metropolitan University. The investigation focused on residents living near the Hillhouse industrial site, operated by AGC Chemicals Europe (formerly ICI), which utilized PFOA between the 1950s and 2012. Higher chemical concentrations were noted in individuals living within one kilometre of the site and those consuming home-grown produce.

PFOA is part of the PFAS family of synthetic compounds that do not easily degrade in the environment. Exposure has been linked to kidney and testicular cancers, liver damage, high cholesterol, and pregnancy complications. In response to contamination concerns, Wyre Council has launched a multi-agency investigation, and the Food Standards Agency has advised residents near the site to wash and peel home-grown produce and to avoid consuming home-produced eggs.