Many nonstick pans and utensils are made with toxic chemicals, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) – both belong to a group of toxins known as “perfluorinated chemicals” or PFCs for short.

Humans and other animals are exposed to PFASs by direct contact with any products containing them. Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a class of man-made chemicals that are very persistent in the environment and in the human body. They do not break down when exposed to air, water or sunlight. 

According to huffingtonpost.com drinking water in 33 states from New Jersey to California has been tainted by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, more commonly referred to as PFAS. Now they are also showing up in human blood: A 2015 study found PFAS in 97 percent of blood samples tested.

A new study from Harvard University has linked chemicals found in non-stick cookware with weight gain, especially in women. 

Animal studies have shown that these chemicals have potentially disruptive effects on the endocrine system. Now, the new study published in the journal PLOS Medicine, has found similar associations in humans as well.  High contamination of PFOA responsible for testicular and kidney cancer, liver malfunction, hormonal changes, thyroid disruption, high cholesterol, obesity, ulcerative colitis, lower birth weight and size.

As far as cookware goes, there are many other options beyond nonstick: Stainless steel, cast iron, ceramic, and stoneware

Source: huffingtonpost.com, bigthink.com, telegraph.co.uk