3M releases preliminary results of PFBA study

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3M researchers released preliminary results from a 90 day study of PFBA in rats. They found that the chemical primarily affected male rats by increasing their liver weight and reducing their thyroid function. Those results are consistent with a previous 3M study on rats that was shorter in duration.

But 3M officials say even though the rats had slightly larger livers, there was no evidence of damage to the organs. They say there was also no evidence of thyroid injury.

They concluded their presentation by saying that humans are less sensitive to some of the effects of PFBA and they have an exposure to the chemical that's at least 1000 times lower than the rats.

The Minnesota Department of Health says 3M's data are sound. But they are reviewing the company's conclusions.