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Blood tests find high levels of cancer-causing forever chemical in residents near Lancashire factory
Overview
Independent blood tests of 49 residents living near the AGC Chemicals factory in Thornton-Cleveleys, Lancashire, have revealed unusually high levels of PFOA, a cancer-causing forever chemical. The contamination is believed to have originated from the factory, which used the substance to manufacture non-stick coatings until 2012. Using international guidelines, 70% of those tested showed readings that could place them at increased risk of adverse health effects, prompting more than 100 residents to consider groundbreaking legal action against the company.
Key points
- Independent blood tests of 49 residents in Thornton-Cleveleys found very high levels of the cancer-causing forever chemical PFOA.
- Investigations by the Environment Agency indicate the contamination likely came from the nearby AGC Chemicals factory, which used PFOA until 2012.
- Using US and German guidelines, 70% of the tested residents had readings that could place them at increased risk of health issues like kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and reduced thyroid function.
- Two allotment sites have been closed due to soil and food contamination, and local residents within 1km of the plant have been advised to peel home-grown produce.
- More than 100 residents are considering taking group legal action against AGC Chemicals to claim damages for contamination, financial losses, and health risks.
- AGC Chemicals stated that the site manufactured chemicals before it was established and noted the factory will close later this year.