PFAS Dangers and Water Contamination
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals," are synthetic chemicals that don't break down and can accumulate in the environment and human body. They have been in use since the 1940s and are found in various consumer products, food, and drinking water. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to serious health issues, including cancer. Despite their widespread use, limited research exists on their health effects.
PFAS contamination is a pressing concern, with over 16 million Americans drinking water contaminated by PFAS from military and industrial sites. While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set a nonbinding limit for some PFAS in 2016, regulators have not established a legal safe exposure limit yet. Contamination often occurs near industrial sites, landfills, and areas where firefighting foam containing PFAS has been used.
States and individuals have filed lawsuits against companies responsible for PFAS contamination. Some products, like nonstick cookware and certain cosmetics, contain PFAS. To protect against exposure, people can test and filter their drinking water, check product labels for PFAS-free alternatives, follow food safety guidelines, and support brands that offer PFAS-free products.
PFAS pose health risks not only to humans but also to wildlife and the environment. Research shows potential links between PFAS exposure and cancer, fertility issues, high cholesterol, hormone disruption, and more. Contamination is widespread, affecting air, soil, and water. Military personnel, in particular, face exposure risks due to PFAS in firefighting foams. Understanding the sources and products containing PFAS is crucial to minimize exposure to these harmful chemicals.
shared with permission by ConsumerNotice.org
