Human exposure to PFAS and their precursors in the environment

The aim of this project is to investigate the pathways through which people are exposed to PFAS chemicals. Exposure to PFASs can occur through multiple pathways such as drinking water, consumption of food, inhalation of air, dust ingestion and skin contact with contaminated products but little is known about the role that air, dust and skin contact contribute to overall exposure. Understanding these pathways of exposure is essential to manage potential risks of contamination. This is particularly important for people who have experienced higher levels of exposure to PFASs whether the live in exposed communities or work in occupationally exposed groups.

We invite residents of Oakey, Queensland to take part in this study. More information about what is involved in participation is included in the “Information for Participants” tab below.

This research project is funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and has received approval from The University of Queensland Human Research Ethics Committee, Approval Number, 2020002681.

PFASs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are manufactured chemicals that are present in the environment, in foods and food packaging, various consumer products and in industrial applications, including fire-fighting foams. The extensive use, distribution and manufacture of products containing PFASs has resulted in widespread exposure of individuals and the environment. The general population is exposed to background levels of PFASs through food, drinking water and house dust. As a result, PFASs can be detected in blood serum samples of the general population. Certain populations have higher levels of PFASs exposure, particularly those who have produced or worked with these chemicals. Some communities living in environments that have experienced exceptional contamination may also be exposed to high levels of PFASs.

Links to information about PFASs

Learn more about PFASs from the current research and literature.

PFAS Australian Information Portal

Australian Department of Health - Information about PFASs

Australia - Expert Health Panel for PFAS: Summary

National Program of Research into the Human Health Effects of Prolonged Expsoure to PFAS

The PFAS Health Study - Systemic Literature Review

History and Use of PFASs

PFAS Fact Sheet Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF)

The PFAS Healthy Study - Focus Groups Study

The current research study aims to describe PFASs in the environment. This will help us to understand the pathways that contribute to the exposure to PFASs that people may experience.

People who live in communities and/or work in occupational groups that have been exposed to higher levels of PFASs are the focus of this project. We invite residents from Oakey, Queensland to take part. We will also be working with Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting staff at Brisbane Airport Fire Station.

What does my participation involve?

Your participation in the study will involve the completion of a questionnaire as well as the collection of air and dust samples at your home (once in warmer months and once in cooler months) and a single hand wipe sample from you.

Taking part in the study is completely voluntary. More information about participation in the study is included in the link below.

On conclusion of your participation you will receive a Coles Myer gift card to thank you for your time in taking part. You will also receive a personal report describing the PFAS chemicals present in your home and from your hand wipe sample along with a summary of the research findings.

If you would like to express an interest in taking part, please click on the link below.

Information about participation in the study

For more information about participation in the study, please click on the information link below.

For residents of Oakey

If you have any questions about the study or your participation, please contact us by using the link on the button below or the options provided in the Contact Us section.