Firefighters Exposed to PFAS Are Losing Cognitive Function

Firefighters have some of the highest PFAS levels of any profession. Now a study links that exposure to cognitive decline. The chemicals in their gear and the foam they spray are getting into their blood and affecting their brains.

What the Study Found

A 2026 study in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology measured PFAS levels in firefighters and tested their cognitive function. Higher PFAS exposure was associated with worse cognitive performance, including problems with memory, attention, and processing speed.

Firefighters are exposed to PFAS through AFFF firefighting foam, their turnout gear (which contains PFAS for water resistance), and contaminated fire scenes. They absorb these chemicals through their skin and lungs during every shift.

Why This Matters Beyond Firefighters

If PFAS affects brain function in healthy, physically fit adults, what's it doing to the rest of us? Most people have measurable PFAS in their blood from drinking water, food packaging, nonstick cookware, and stain-resistant products. Firefighters just get more of it.

What You Can Do

Filter your water. Avoid nonstick cookware. Skip stain-resistant fabric treatments. If you're a firefighter or know one, push for PFAS-free gear and foam alternatives.

Check out our non-toxic home essentials for PFAS-free products.

Also see non-toxic kitchen essentials for safer alternatives.

Source: Pan X, Pollitt KJG, Liu S, et al. (2026). J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol.