Blood test results published last week by law firm Leigh Day, in collaboration with Dr Dave Megson and Watershed Investigations, indicate high levels of 'forever chemicals' in residents near a chemical plant in Thornton-Cleveleys, north of Blackpool.
Of the 49 individuals tested, 70% had a combined level of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) exceeding 20 ng/ml. In the US, this level is associated with an increased risk of adverse health effects, prompting clinicians to consider more frequent health screenings.
One resident, Sam Hammond, whose pet duck eggs were found to be contaminated with PFAS in February, has a blood level of 25 ng/ml, while her son's level is 111 ng/ml. Another anonymous woman recorded a PFAS level of 436 ng/ml.
Pfoa, a type of PFAS and a group 1 carcinogen, was emitted from the AGC Chemicals factory until 2012. A government-commissioned study in June found higher-than-expected rates of kidney cancer in two areas near the factory, though a detailed review concluded no further cluster investigation was warranted at that stage.
Wyre borough council has advised residents within a 1km radius of the factory to wash and peel home-grown produce and to avoid eating eggs from locally reared birds. The council has also announced plans to close two allotments close to the factory due to potential health risks.
AGC Chemicals Europe Ltd stated they are aware of the blood testing initiative and the concerns it may cause, but noted that the UK government's position is that PFAS blood testing does not predict future health problems and is not currently recommended by the NHS.