In recent years, public concern over water contamination has surged, particularly regarding a group of man-made chemicals known as PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances). Dubbed “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and in the human body, PFAS have been linked to a wide range of health issues. Despite their prevalence in consumer products and industrial processes for decades, the full extent of their impact is only beginning to be understood.
PFAS contamination in drinking water has become a growing problem, affecting millions of Americans. If you’re a homeowner with children, you may be wondering whether your family’s water supply is safe—and what you can do to protect them from these hazardous chemicals.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are a family of more than 4,700 synthetic chemicals used since the 1940s in products designed to resist heat, water, oil, and stains. You can find PFAS in everyday items like non-stick cookware (Teflon), waterproof clothing, stain-resistant carpets, firefighting foams, and food packaging.
What makes PFAS particularly dangerous is their ability to resist degradation. They don’t break down in water, soil, or the human body, leading to bioaccumulation over time. Because of this, PFAS can remain in the environment and in people for years, even decades, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”
PFAS in Water: A Growing Concern
While PFAS contamination has been detected in air, soil, and wildlife, water is a major source of human exposure. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), an estimated 200 million Americans have PFAS in their drinking water, with contamination levels exceeding what is considered safe by some researchers.
The problem of PFAS contamination is especially acute in areas near industrial sites, military bases, and airports where PFAS-containing firefighting foams have been used. The chemicals can leach into the groundwater and, over time, accumulate in municipal water supplies or private wells.
Recent investigations have revealed alarming contamination levels across the U.S.:
A 2019 study by the EWG found PFAS contamination in the drinking water of dozens of American cities, including major metropolitan areas such as Philadelphia, Miami, and New York City.
In 2023, ABC News reported that PFAS levels in some Michigan communities were more than 500 times higher than the EPA’s recommended limit.
This widespread contamination has prompted increased testing and calls for stricter regulations, as many current standards are insufficient to fully protect public health.
Health Concerns and Risks Associated with PFAS
The health risks associated with PFAS exposure are significant and wide-ranging. Since PFAS accumulate in the body over time, even low-level exposure can lead to adverse health effects. Here are some of the major health concerns linked to PFAS exposure:

1. Cancer
   One of the most concerning risks associated with PFAS exposure is the increased risk of cancer. Studies published in Environmental Health Perspectives have linked high levels of PFAS exposure to kidney, testicular, and liver cancers. One large-scale study conducted by the C8 Science Panel examined residents near a chemical plant in West Virginia and found strong evidence linking PFAS exposure to these types of cancers.
2. Immune System Impacts
   PFAS have been shown to suppress immune function, making it more difficult for the body to fight infections. A study published in the Journal of Immunotoxicology found that children with higher PFAS levels in their blood had weaker immune responses to vaccines. This raises concerns, especially for families with young children, as impaired immune systems make children more susceptible to diseases.
3. Reproductive and Developmental Issues
   PFAS exposure has been linked to reproductive problems, including reduced fertility, increased risk of miscarriage, and adverse developmental outcomes in infants. A 2020 study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that women exposed to high levels of PFAS were more likely to experience irregular menstrual cycles and reduced ovarian reserve, potentially leading to fertility issues.
   In pregnant women, PFAS have been associated with low birth weight, developmental delays, and preterm birth. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) warns that prenatal exposure to PFAS can affect growth, learning, and behavior in infants and children.
4. Thyroid Disease
   PFAS chemicals can disrupt hormone function, leading to an increased risk of thyroid disorders. A study published in Environmental Health linked high levels of PFAS to hypothyroidism, particularly in women. Hypothyroidism can cause fatigue, weight gain, and depression, while untreated thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy can lead to serious complications.
5. High Cholesterol and Liver Damage
   Long-term exposure to PFAS has also been linked to elevated cholesterol levels, a major risk factor for heart disease. Additionally, PFAS are known to accumulate in the liver, causing damage and increasing the risk of liver disease. A 2022 study in the Journal of Hepatology found that individuals with high levels of PFAS in their blood were more likely to develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
   PFAS in the News: Real-World Examples of Contamination
   The dangers of PFAS contamination have been highlighted in numerous high-profile cases, prompting increased public awareness and government action:
   Flint, Michigan: Already plagued by a lead contamination crisis, Flint also discovered elevated PFAS levels in its water supply in 2019. This compounded concerns about the safety of Flint’s water and the long-term health effects on its residents.
   The DuPont Case: One of the most notable PFAS contamination cases involved the DuPont chemical company, which was found to have knowingly contaminated the water supply in Parkersburg, West Virginia, for decades. The case was depicted in the 2019 film Dark Waters, which brought widespread attention to the issue.
   Military Bases: Across the U.S., military bases have been hotspots for PFAS contamination due to the use of firefighting foams containing these chemicals. In 2021, CBS News reported that more than 700 military sites were contaminated with PFAS, affecting the water supply of nearby communities.
   Statistics on PFAS Exposure and Contamination
   Several studies and reports provide alarming statistics on the prevalence and impact of PFAS:
   EPA Estimates: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a health advisory level of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFAS in drinking water. However, independent experts argue that even this level is too high. Some studies suggest that PFAS levels as low as 1 ppt can pose health risks.
   Widespread Exposure: According to a report from the CDC, PFAS were detected in the blood of 97% of Americans tested, illustrating how pervasive these chemicals have become in everyday life.
   High Contamination Areas: A 2021 study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that more than 2,300 sites in the U.S. had PFAS contamination in their water, with particularly high levels in areas surrounding industrial plants and military bases.
   How to Protect Your Family from PFAS
   Given the widespread presence of PFAS in water supplies, it’s important for homeowners to take steps to minimize exposure:
   Test Your Water: The first step in protecting your family is to test your water for PFAS. Companies like Cleaner Water Solutions offer free water testing, giving you a comprehensive analysis of the contaminants in your water supply.
   Install a Filtration System: If your water is contaminated with PFAS, installing a home filtration system can significantly reduce your exposure. Reverse osmosis systems and activated carbon filters have been shown to be effective at removing PFAS from water.
   Stay Informed: Follow local water quality reports and keep an eye on national PFAS regulations. The EPA is currently reviewing its health advisory levels for PFAS, and future regulations may lower the acceptable levels of these chemicals in drinking water.
   Conclusion
   PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” represent a growing environmental and public health crisis. With millions of Americans potentially exposed to unsafe levels of these chemicals through their drinking water, it’s crucial for homeowners to take proactive steps to protect their families. By understanding the risks and testing your water, you can ensure that your household isn’t being affected by these dangerous chemicals. If you suspect PFAS contamination in your water, contact Cleaner Water Solutions for a free test and personalized treatment solution to safeguard your home.

Cleaner Water Solutions is committed to helping families ensure their water is free of harmful contaminants like PFAS. Contact us today to schedule your free water test and find out how we can help you protect your home and loved ones from “forever chemicals.”