A new study has revealed that drinking water in U.S. prisons may contain dangerously high levels of PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.” ¹ These nearly indestructible man-made substances have been widely used for decades and are now contaminating the water supply of almost a million incarcerated people.
But the threat doesn’t stop there – forever chemicals are everywhere, and they could be putting your health at risk too. Here’s what you need to know.
1. A Troubled History
Forever chemicals have a long and complex history dating back to the 1930s. The first PFAS, called PCTFE, was discovered by accident in 1938 by Roy Plunkett at DuPont. It was later commercialized in the 1950s under the name Kel-F.
In 1945, DuPont trademarked Teflon, the non-stick coating that would become ubiquitous in cookware. However, early production was plagued by challenges and tragedies, including the deaths of several scientists due to PFAS exposure and explosions. These incidents were early warning signs of the potential dangers of PFAS.
2. Widespread Contamination
Today, PFAS contamination is a global problem. The chemicals have been detected in the blood of 99% of Americans. They’re used in hundreds of consumer and industrial products, from food packaging to firefighting foam.
Drinking water is a major exposure pathway, with an estimated 70 million Americans having PFAS in their water supply. Those living near military bases, airports, or industrial sites are at particularly high risk. Even infants can be exposed through contaminated breastmilk or formula mixed with tainted water.
3. Health Risks
Studies have linked PFAS to a range of serious health problems, including increased cancer risk, thyroid disease, liver damage, kidney issues, reproductive problems, and weakened immunity ². Children are especially vulnerable.
PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment and our bodies for years. The more you’re exposed, the greater the potential for harm. And with thousands of PFAS in use, many of which are poorly studied, the full scope of the risks remains unknown.
4. Reducing Your Exposure
While it’s impossible to completely avoid PFAS, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure:
– Filter your drinking water using an NSF-certified filter rated to remove PFAS.
– Avoid non-stick cookware and choose stainless steel or cast iron instead.
– Limit fast food and greasy carryout food, which often comes in PFAS-treated packaging.
– Avoid stain-resistant carpets, furniture, and clothing.
– Check for fish advisories before eating locally caught fish in areas with known contamination.
– Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and wipe surfaces with a damp cloth to reduce dust.
5. Advocating for Change
Ultimately, solving the PFAS crisis will require action at the federal level. The EPA has recently moved to regulate some PFAS in drinking water, but much more needs to be done.
As consumers, we can use our voices and our wallets to demand change. Support brands that have committed to phasing out PFAS. Urge your elected officials to support stronger regulations and cleanup efforts. And stay informed about the latest research and guidance from trusted sources like the ATSDR and PEHSU.
The story of forever chemicals is still unfolding, but one thing is clear – we can’t afford to ignore this invisible threat any longer. By understanding the risks, taking steps to protect ourselves, and advocating for change, we can work towards a future where our water, our bodies, and our environment are free from the burden of PFAS.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
