Date of Award
Fall 12-9-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department/Program
Forensic Science
Language
English
First Advisor or Mentor
Ana Pego
Second Reader
Marta Concheiro-Guisan
Third Advisor
Michelle Carlin
Abstract
In recent years, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have emerged as a critical focus in environmental and public health research due to their persistent nature and widespread use in products ranging from non-stick cookware to firefighting foams. These "forever chemicals" resist degradation, posing significant ecological and human health risks. While extensive studies have explored PFAS in environmental matrices, research into their presence in human hair remains limited, with only a handful of studies addressing this biomarker's potential. This thesis aims to develop a robust analytical method for detecting PFAS in human hair, leveraging its unique properties to provide a long-term record of chemical exposure. Hair analysis offers a non-invasive, stable, and comprehensive approach to monitoring PFAS, which can establish exposure timelines and baseline population levels. This methodology could identify high risk groups, including professionals in fire safety, petrochemical, military, and aviation industries, and communities near contaminated sites. The findings of this research will contribute to understanding PFAS exposure disparities across different demographic groups, emphasizing the need for environmental justice. By identifying individuals at heightened risk, the study aims to support targeted interventions and policy development to protect vulnerable populations from PFAS contamination.
Recommended Citation
Allen, Justin M., "Development of a rapid method for PFAS detection and quantitation in human hair" (2024). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/jj_etds/335
