3M-Made Chemical Likely a Carcinogen

The Science Advisory Board finalized a report this week that says a chemical manufactured by 3M Co.is likely a carcinogen. The report was prepared for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which could utilize the findings for regulatory decisions.

"This wasn't going to be the final call," said Deborah Cory-Slechta, a scientist who led the group that reviewed the Advisory Board report. "As additional data comes in, the EPA will revisit it."

The panel's findings are considered "significant" by an attorney who represents Minnesota residents who are currently suing 3M. The lawsuit claims that the 3M-made chemical known as perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, contaminated groundwater in Washington County and found its way into residents' blood. 3M is also being sued in Alabama, where another plant produced PFOA as well.

The Science Advisory Board is a 35-member panel of scientists from leading universities, manufacturers and research institutions around the country. The board's report said that its members' "predominant" view is that PFOA is "likely to be carcinogenic," which is defined as a substance that causes cancer.

Bill Nelson, a 3M spokesman said the company "pledges our continued cooperation with the EPA and global scientific community for further understanding of PFOA."

3M decided in 2000 to stop producing PFOA and began to phase out production at that time.