PFAS in New England Water

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances 

PFAS (Per and Polyfluroalkyl substances) are a group of artificial chemicals that have been produced and utilized in numerous industries since the 1940s. Some of their common commercial applications include products like Teflon, stain & water-resistant materials, paints, polishes, and fire-fighting foams. These chemicals are being detected at dangerous levels in drinking water supplies across the country.

The two most extensively produced and studied PFAS are PFOA and PFOS. Both chemicals do not break down and can accumulate over time. There is evidence that exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse human health effects. As a result, the United States no longer manufactures these chemicals, but they are still produced in other countries and may be present in imported products. In May 2016, the EPA issued a health advisory level at 70 parts per trillion for both PFOA and PFOS. If your home is on town water, the local authorities are required to notify you if this advisory level is exceeded.

Health Affects of PFAs in Household Water

There is evidence that exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse health outcomes in humans. When ingested by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, these chemicals get absorbed and accumulate in the body. PFAS can stay in the human body for long periods, increasing the risk of adverse health effects as exposure builds up over time.

Studies indicate that PFOA and PFOS can cause reproductive and developmental, liver and kidney, and immunological effects in laboratory animals. Both chemicals even caused tumors in animal studies. The most consistent findings from human epidemiology studies are increased cholesterol levels among exposed populations, with more limited findings related to infant birth weights.

Effects on the immune system can include: Cancer (for PFOA), and thyroid hormone disruption (for PFOS). For more detailed information, see the EPA website.