The Flemish Government will carry out a PFAS blood test on 400 adults across Flanders this autumn to better understand the extent of PFAS spread in the general adult population. The tests will be regardless of place of residence or location.
PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) are referred to as "forever chemicals" as they do not break down in the environment or the human body. The first results of the survey are expected by the end of 2026, with more detailed environmental health interpretations planned by autumn 2028, announced outgoing Flemish Health Minister Hilde Crevits (CD&V).
"In several areas in Flanders, elevated concentrations of PFAS are found in the living environment. In addition to measurements in the environment, we use human biomonitoring research (HBM) to measure the concentration of pollutants released into the human body," Crevits explained.
Defining a point of comparison
A number of scientific studies in recent years have looked into the presence of PFAS, especially in the region around the 3M plant in Zwijndrecht (Antwerp). Besides measurements taken in soil and water, research has also mapped the concentration of contaminants in the human body.
To properly interpret and compare data from areas with elevated PFAS concentrations, a general Flemish reference is needed. "A reference is currently being developed for young people, but is now also being developed for adults," Crevits stated.
This campaign is therefore an essential step to establish the health risks of exposure to PFAS exposure and a proper risk assessment is the basis for a correct action framework.
Greenpeace Belgium placed a message on the 3M plant in Zwijndrecht, after the PFAS pollution case. Credit: Belga/Katleen Vastiau
To do so, 400 adults across Flanders aged between 18 and 65 will be selected via representative samples. Their blood will be tested for 22 PFAS compounds, including the 13 compounds measured in the large-scale blood test around Zwijndrecht's 3M site.
Participants will simultaneously be questioned about their knowledge and perception of PFAS and other substances of very high concern.
The total cost of the testing will be €661,000 – an amount provided for in the remediation agreement that the Flemish Government concluded with 3M, according to "the polluter pays" principle.
