Scientists find harmful chemicals in pets in North Carolina
RALEIGH, North Carolina – Scientists have found high levels of non-perishable synthetic chemicals in blood samples from dogs and horses in the U.S. state of North Carolina.
The traces of the chemicals, known as PFAS, are believed to have been transferred to the animals by drinking groundwater.
Researchers at North Carolina State University examined chemical levels in the blood of 31 dogs and 32 horses.
The animals tested had reported liver and kidney problems associated with PFAS compounds.
Scott Belcher, one of the researchers, expressed concern about the chemicals observed in pets.
He said they could also affect children.
The chemicals were found in the riverbed of the Cape Fear River. The 190-mile-long blackwater river flows in eastern North Carolina.
Authors of the research said the region of Central North Carolina where the dogs and horses reside is highly contaminated with PFAS, due to the local production of these long-lasting, synthetic compounds.
In humans, PFAS compounds have been linked to kidney and testicular cancer, as well as thyroid problems.
PFAS compounds, which come in thousands of varieties, are found in industrial waste, certain firefighting foams, and various household items.
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