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It has come to our attention that at least two pesticides - fipronil and bifenthrin - being promoted to healthcare facilities are also known PFAS chemicals. These pesticides are already of concern for being endocrine disruptors linked to alterations in fertility, abnormalities in sex organs, early puberty, altered nervous system function, immune function, certain cancers, respiratory problems, metabolic issues, increased risk of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular problems, neurological and learning disabilities, and more.
These two pesticides have a PFAS as their active ingredient. PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because according to the EPA they persist in our bodies - just one exposure can impact us for a decade or longer. Worse, they build up in our system over time. Epidemiological studies have revealed associations between exposure to specific PFAS and a variety of health effects, including altered immune and thyroid function, liver disease, lipid and insulin dysregulation, kidney disease, adverse reproductive and developmental outcomes, and cancer.
As healthcare decision-makers, your commitment to “first, do no harm” is unwavering. In this pursuit, making informed choices is paramount. These harmful PFAS pesticides can pose serious health risks for the populations you serve. So we encourage you to use this opportunity to check with your pest and grounds management vendors to ensure these pesticides are not being used at your facility. The good news is there are safer alternatives for the pests these products target. We are available to assist – pro bono – with recommendations for safer alternatives.
To always avoid PFAS pesticides at your facility, embracing a prioritized Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program becomes your best weapon. By preventing the need for toxic chemical pesticides, you not only safeguard your patients and staff but also take a proactive stance against PFAS and pesticide dangers. A prioritized IPM program focuses on non-chemical prevention and intervention with least toxic pesticides only used as a last resort
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