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Elevated levels of a cancer-linked “forever chemical” have been detected in blood samples from residents living near a chemical factory in the UK, according to law firm Leigh Day.
Tests involving 49 people in Thornton Cleveleys found that 69.4% had PFOA levels above 20 nanograms per millilitre, placing them in a category considered at higher risk of health problems associated with the chemical. The average level among participants was 26 ng/ml.
What the testing found
PFOA is part of the group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS. These chemicals are often called “forever chemicals” because they resist breaking down in the environment and can accumulate in human tissue.
Exposure to elevated levels of PFOA has been associated with health concerns including high cholesterol and some cancers, Leigh Day said.
The blood testing was conducted in summer 2026 by an expert team from Manchester Metropolitan University, led by Dave Megson. Participants received their results on Sept. 23.
Industrial site and contamination concerns
The residents live near an industrial site operated by “AGC Chemicals”, where PFOA was historically used until 2012. The site was previously operated by “ICI” until 1992.
Leigh Day said it was estimated that about 178 tonnes of PFOA had been released from the site since the 1950s.
Wyre Council, working with the Environment Agency, has conducted soil testing in the area. Samples collected from residents’ properties and nearby allotments reportedly showed elevated PFOA levels.
Leigh Day has been investigating PFAS contamination in the area with experts from Manchester Metropolitan University.
Comparison with US contamination case
The law firm said the findings were comparable to blood levels recorded among residents near a “DuPont” factory in Ohio. That case inspired the film “Dark Waters”, and residents there had an average PFOA level of 32.9 ng/ml.
“The results of our testing project in Thornton Cleveleys are hugely concerning,” said Sarah Moore, a Leigh Day partner leading the firm’s investigation.
“The available evidence suggests that PFAS exposure can lead to serious health impacts, including cancers, when it reaches elevated levels,” she added.
