PFAS are also detectable in the drinking water supplies of many major cities.
Brief History of PFAS
The first PFAS were invented in the 1930s.Their development increased in the 1960s.
The PFAS helps the mixture spread, so it is highly effective against flammable-substance fires.
Uwe Krejci/Getty Images.
Chemistry
PFAS belong to a broad group of chemicals that have different properties and uses.
PFOA and PFOS have been used in manufacturing for many decades and are widespread in the environment.
However, it is still wise to be aware of the products you use that might contain these chemicals.
As a result, they contaminate groundwater, surface water, and soil.
Researchers believe that long-term accumulation might be detrimental to food and drinking water sources if this continues.
They have created aninteractive mapusing federal drinking water data and information on publicly documented cases of PFAS pollution.
Another helpful resource that maps PFAS exposure is the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry (ATSDR).
TheATSDR mapis specific to PFAS investigations conducted in set regions throughout the United States.
PFAS were detected in some of these water supplies, and the state is taking action.
The ATSDR is currently evaluating whether the drinking water in those areas is safe.
How Serious Are the Health Risks?
Studies that have examined PFAS have found high levels of certain PFAS can lead to some health risks.
Exposure results from inhaling or swallowing these chemicals or getting them on your skin.
Even showering and bathing or washing dishes in PFAS-containing water does not increase exposure.
There is some concern about infant exposure to PFAS through breast milk.
New kinds of PFAS are also being developed.
Many of these will be less persistent in the environment.
Research is needed to determine if these newer chemicals pose risks to human health.
They provide a list of resources and advocacy groups in the United States.
They are called “forever chemicals” because they are not easily broken down.
PFAS chemicals can also find their way into the water supply.
Researchers do not believe that everyday exposure provides severe or long-term harm.
Consumer water filtration units can effectively remove PFAS compounds from your in-home drinking source.
Two types of filtration units used in homes are granular activated carbon filters or reverse osmosis.
If you want to avoid PFAS in these products, take the time to read their ingredient labels.
Their website offers a list of resources and advocacy groups available in the United States.
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Environmental Protection Agency.PFAS strategic roadmap: EPA’s commitments to action 2021-2024.
Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council.History and use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found in the environment.
Department of Defense.Naval research lab chemists search for PFAS-free firefighting foam.
2020;22(12):2345-2373. doi:10.1039/d0em00291g
Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council.2.4 PFAS reductions and alternative PFAS formulations.
Agency For Toxic Substance and Disease Registry.How can I be exposed?
Environmental Protection Agency.EPA PFAS action plan.
Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry.What are the health effects of PFAS?
The White House.FACT SHEET: President Biden signs executive order catalyzing America’s clean energy economy through federal sustainability.
