Recent testing across the country has reignited concerns about the so-called "forever chemicals" that may be present in public drinking water systems. New US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data reveals that toxic PFAS chemicals have been discovered in water systems that serve at least 151 million Americans, or about half of those who drink from public water systems, reported USA Today.
What are 'forever chemicals'?
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals that have been around since World War II. They were designed to be resistant to heat, oil, stains and water, which is why they are found in stain-resistant materials, non-stick packaging, and industrial products.
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However, this same quality also makes them persistent in the environment and in our bodies. Over the years, PFAS can accumulate, and health scientists believe that this could increase the risk of developing certain cancers and health problems.
"There is no level of exposure to these contaminants without risk of health impacts," EPA officials said in a statement to USA Today, regarding the EPA’s non-enforceable health-based goal of zero for two of the most studied PFAS compounds, PFOS and PFOA, in drinking water.
What the latest EPA records show
The EPA put out new data on February 12, based on water samples collected over the past three years. More than 1,050 water systems reported an average level of PFAS above the new regulatory limits set by the EPA. Together, these systems serve at least 52 million people, or one in seven Americans, according to USA Today.
The current regulation sets a limit of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for certain types of PFAS chemicals in the yearly average concentration. Cities have until 2031 to meet these standards by improving water treatment facilities or finding new sources of water.
To determine the extent of the problem, the EPA asked most drinking water utilities to test for around 30 different types of PFAS between 2023 and 2025. So far, more than 9,000 utilities have turned in their full data, while over 1,000 have turned in partial data.
Where contamination is being found
In large cities, the contamination is likely to appear more, and the airports, military bases, and industries in the surrounding areas are normally identified as potential sources. Approximately 25 per cent of the utilities serving populations of over 1,00,000 reported PFAS levels exceeding the permissible levels.
However, some small cities recorded the highest levels of contamination. Oxford, Mississippi, reported PFOS levels far exceeding federal limits, and Morgantown, Pennsylvania, identified high levels of contamination and temporarily closed the well, stated USA Today.
What residents can do
The EPA advises residents concerned about PFAS exposure to contact their local water provider for testing information and details about corrective measures. Because infrastructure upgrades may take years, households may consider temporary filtration solutions.
The agency recommends filters that use charcoal, reverse osmosis, or ion exchange resins and suggests checking certified products listed on its website.
For Americans relying on private wells, the EPA recommends contacting state environmental or health agencies to locate certified laboratories capable of testing for PFAS contamination.
