UK Blood Tests Reveal High Cancer Chemical Levels

Blood tests have revealed "really high levels" of the cancer-causing forever chemical PFOA in dozens of residents near a chemical factory in Thornton-Cleveleys, Lancashire. The substance, known to cause serious health conditions, has also been found at elevated levels in local soils and food. Investigations by the Environment Agency and Wyre Council since 2024 concluded the contamination likely originated from the nearby AGC Chemicals factory, which used PFOA until 2012.

Independent tests conducted by Manchester Metropolitan University on 49 volunteers showed that 70% had PFOA readings potentially linking them to increased health risks like kidney and testicular cancer, according to US and German guidelines. One resident, Andrew Molloy, found he lived on former factory land and had high levels despite not consuming local produce. Another, Mario Panteli, expressed shock and concern for his children's safety in their garden.

More than 100 residents are now considering group legal action against AGC Chemicals for damages related to contamination and health risks. This case could be groundbreaking in the UK, mirroring large PFOA contamination lawsuits overseas. AGC Chemicals stated that the site operated long before their establishment and they cannot speculate on ongoing investigations, noting the factory is scheduled to close later this year.

Public health specialists suggest PFOA levels could have been higher in the past. While increased risk doesn't guarantee illness, authorities recommend further screening for affected individuals. Researchers emphasize the need for wider blood testing to understand the full scale of the issue, with concerns that Thornton-Cleveleys may be just the beginning of a larger problem.