PFAS 'Forever Chemicals' Detected in 26 Bandage Brands

Tejal Somvanshi

Bandages meant to help us heal might be exposing us to harmful chemicals linked to cancer as the tests show

Photo Source: Tara Winstead (Pexels)

The testing, done by Mamavation and Environmental Health News, revealed these chemicals in everyday brands found in most medicine cabinets.

Photo Source: Osseous (CC BY 2.0)

Common brands like Band-Aid and CVS Health contain concerning levels of these chemicals that are highly resistant to degradation

Photo Source: Jo Zimny Photos (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

PFAS aren't some harmless additive – health experts have linked these to cancer, decreased fertility, and weakened immune system performance.

Photo Source: Alex Fisher-Wagner (UC Davis) (CC BY 2.0)

According to studies, only two types of PFAS, out of thousands, have clear connections to increased cancer risk.

Photo Source: Cancer Research UK (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Some companies are already taking action. Brands like 3M and Tru Colour now offer PFAS-free bandages

Photo Source: Dena Hurlebaus (iStock)

Dr. Linda Birnbaum, who previously led the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences expresses concerns over bio-magnification following disposal of bandages

Photo Souce: National Institutes of Health (PDM)

PFAS-free products prove we can have effective wound care without potentially harmful chemicals and as awareness grows, more manufacturers may shift away from these chemicals

Photo Source: Medical equipment factory in the Philippines (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)