A recent study has revealed that almost half of the drinking water in the United States contains harmful “forever chemicals,” also known as PFAS. This research adds to the growing body of evidence showing the widespread presence of these toxic substances in American life. Despite this, many Americans remain unaware of the existence and dangers of PFAS compounds, which have been linked to cancer. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) estimates that 45% of U.S. taps contain at least one type of PFAS. In addition, previous research has found PFAS in the blood of 97% of Americans and in significant portions of U.S. waterways.
Toxicologist Jamie DeWitt, a professor at East Carolina University, commented on the findings, stating that the presence of PFAS in drinking water is not surprising since these chemicals have been found in polar bears and the bottom of the ocean. DeWitt expressed concern over the lack of public awareness surrounding PFAS and the ongoing mistrust of science, both of which hinder efforts to protect public health from contaminants.
Linda Birnbaum, former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health and the National Toxicology Program, agreed with DeWitt’s sentiments, noting that many people are still unaware of the growing PFAS problem. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various illnesses, including cancer, thyroid disease, and high cholesterol. The USGS study focused on 32 types of PFAS and found that PFBS, PFHxS, and PFOA were most frequently observed.
Experts such as Scott Bartell from the University of California, Irvine, emphasized the increased risk of cancer and other illnesses for those exposed to PFAS in their water. Carmen Messerlian from Harvard highlighted the carcinogenic, immunotoxic, reprotoxic, and endocrine-disrupting properties of PFAS substances, emphasizing that the study’s focus on only 32 chemicals likely undercounts the actual number of PFAS in existence.
The study found that urban areas are more at risk than rural areas when it comes to PFAS contamination. However, the authors noted that there is limited data available for private wells across the U.S., leaving well owners in rural areas without the same protections as those served by utilities. Private well owners are on their own in terms of ensuring the safety of their water.
Overall, while the study’s conclusions do not definitively confirm the risk to the entire country, the presence of PFAS in drinking water contributes to chronic diseases, which are the leading cause of premature deaths worldwide. Experts emphasize the need for increased awareness and action to address this issue effectively.
Erin Bell from the State University of New York at Albany pointed to the National Academies’ guidelines, which recommend screening patients for illnesses based on their PFAS blood levels. She also highlighted a study that found PFAS in the blood of newborn babies.
In conclusion, the presence of “forever chemicals” in U.S. drinking water is a concerning issue that requires attention and action to safeguard public health. Increased awareness, regulation, and monitoring are necessary steps to protect individuals from the harmful effects of PFAS exposure.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
