Kyoto University Links Lung Disease to PFAS Exposure

Apr 24, 2025 | News On Japan

KYOTO - Kyoto University and its research team have revealed that several former employees of Daikin Industries developed lung diseases, potentially linked to exposure to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), a group of chemical compounds used in industrial manufacturing.

According to a study published on April 23rd, the team examined the blood of seven former employees who had worked at Daikin's plant in Settsu City, Osaka, where PFAS-containing products were produced. High concentrations of a PFAS subtype known as PFOA were found in five of them. Among those, three developed lung conditions involving respiratory difficulties.

The researchers highlighted that the rate of disease occurrence was about 470 times higher than that seen among the general population. All three affected individuals had been engaged in work processes involving direct exposure to PFAS-containing materials.

The team emphasized the need for broader epidemiological studies covering more current and former workers, pointing out the likelihood that many others may also have been affected. They called for companies to take responsibility by conducting thorough health impact assessments and follow-ups on employees who may have been exposed to hazardous chemicals.

While the research team plans to continue investigations to gather more comprehensive data, Daikin Industries stated that it has not yet reviewed the study in detail and therefore cannot comment on its findings.

Source: Television OSAKA NEWS

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