Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a family of chemicals renowned for their persistent nature and potential health impacts. Often called “forever chemicals” due to their long-lasting nature, PFAS have been linked to a range of health issues.
With mounting concern, October has brought forth new developments that may impact people across the United States. Here’s a closer look at four major PFAS updates you should know.
1. PFAS Compounds Prove More Toxic Than Individual Chemicals
Recent studies reveal that combinations of multiple PFAS chemicals may pose significantly higher toxicity levels than individual PFAS compounds alone. The Guardian reports that the University of Buffalo teamed up with the Germany-based Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research for this research.
This discovery raises concern over the cumulative risks posed by PFAS when they co-exist in water supplies, food sources, and even consumer products. The researchers tested for mixtures containing as many as 12 commonly detected PFAS chemicals in water by the federal regulators. They discovered the compounds are toxic to human cells and have an additive effect.
PFOA was the most cytotoxic, consisting of up to 42% of the water mixture’s cytotoxicity. In the blood analysis, it contributed to nearly 70% of the cytotoxicity and over 35% of the neurotoxicity. The combined effects could cause greater health hazards, especially for vulnerable populations like children and those with preexisting health issues. As awareness of PFAS toxicity spreads, legal actions surrounding exposure continue to escalate.
One prominent example is the litigation involving aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), a firefighting foam containing PFAS. Communities and individuals impacted by these chemicals have filed lawsuits against manufacturers. TruLaw reveals federal cases have been merged under the AFFF MDL 2873 and are ongoing. As of November 2024, over 7,100 cases are awaiting justice.
However, victims should have realistic expectations about the AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts. Your compensation will depend on your exposure levels and health impacts. Individuals with mild health conditions and minimal exposure should expect a modest payout.
2. USDA’s New Roadmap to Eliminate PFAS from Farmlands
In a significant step toward addressing PFAS contamination in agriculture, The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a strategic action plan. This initiative was a tie-up between the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service, its Center of Excellence for Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation, and Maine University.
Over 150 cross-agency specialists, state representatives, university affiliates, and other industry specialists participated in a 72-hour workshop. According to The Fence Post, the workshop was intended to help eradicate these chemicals from American farmlands. This initiative is essential, as PFAS contamination can enter the food chain, poisoning everything from crops to dairy products.
The USDA’s roadmap outlines methods to prevent, identify, and remediate PFAS contamination in soil and water. It ensures farmers and consumers are better protected from potential health risks. This plan includes deploying cutting-edge technologies and practices to help farmers detect PFAS in their soil and water and prevent further contamination.
Additionally, the USDA aims to collaborate with state and federal agencies to establish regulatory standards. This collaboration could limit PFAS exposure in agricultural settings. For the average American, this initiative signals that proactive measures are being taken to protect food quality and safeguard public health from PFAS-related dangers.
3. Over 3 Million Michiganders at Risk of Drinking PFAS-Tainted Water
Another concerning development is the discovery that as many as 3.2 million, or 1 in 3 residents in Michigan, maybe consuming water laced with PFAS. The high number of polluting factories and private wells as water sources are the primary reasons for this concerning figure. Studies indicate that Michigan aquifers, a major state drinking water source, contain elevated PFAS levels.
Moreover, nearly 1.5 million residents rely on private wells, whereas 1.8 million use groundwater-based public water sources. Bridge Michigan states that the government has identified about 330 sites for PFAS contamination. This finding has prompted state and federal agencies to investigate further and provide guidance to communities at risk. For residents in these areas, PFAS in the water presents an immediate concern.
PFAS exposure through drinking water has been linked to several health conditions, including thyroid disorders, cancer, and immune system effects. Authorities advise Michigan residents in affected regions to monitor water quality and, if necessary, consider using filtration systems designed to reduce PFAS. With the government assessing and managing this situation, localities hope for a swift and comprehensive response, ensuring safe and clean drinking water.
4. PFAS Contamination Found in Maine Wildlife
PFAS contamination has also spread into wildlife populations, as evidenced by recent findings in Maine. Tests on local deer and turkey meat revealed PFAS levels high enough to prompt warnings against its consumption. This contamination stems from various sources, including wastewater and industrial runoff, which carry PFAS into natural habitats.
Hunters in Maine are now urged to avoid eating deer harvested from Unity, Unity Township, Albion, and Freedom. Certain areas in Fairfield and parts of Skowhegan also fall under the advisory. These areas are around known contamination zones to minimize health risks.
Moreover, the Associated Press reveals that New Hampshire, Michigan, and Wisconsin have issued similar warnings. These findings indicate a broader environmental impact, impacting wildlife and people who consume meat from certain regions. The spread of PFAS into natural ecosystems signals that the issue extends beyond human-made environments.
It poses a risk to food sources that were once considered safe. For those living in Maine and other heavily forested areas, this news may lead to changes. Expect new developments in traditional hunting practices and environmental monitoring and regulation to avoid further wildlife and natural resource contamination.
Commonly Asked Questions
Q1. What is the EPA-mandated limit for PFAS in drinking water?
For PFOA and PFOS, it’s 4.0 parts per trillion (ppt) individually. On the other hand, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA (GenX) are limited to 10 ppt. Finally, a compound involving two or more PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, and PFBS chemicals should have a hazard index of 1.
Q2. What’s the difference between short-chain and long-chain PFAS?
Long-chain PFAS (like PFOA and PFOS) accumulate more in our bodies and are generally more toxic. While short-chain PFAS were created as alternatives, recent studies suggest they’re more mobile in water and equally persistent. However, their health impacts are still being studied.
Q3. What’s the difference between PFOA and PFOS, and why are they both concerning?
PFOA and PFOS are among the most recognized and extensively studied PFAS chemicals. They were commonly used in Teflon and firefighting foam. Both are extremely persistent in the environment and the human body, and they’ve been linked to health problems like immune deficiency and kidney cancer.
As regulators and communities address and manage the widespread PFAS contamination, it infiltrates water sources, farmlands, and wildlife. These developments highlight the growing understanding of PFAS risks and the importance of continued research and regulation to mitigate PFAS-related risks.
These updates underscore the need for Americans to stay informed and advocate for measures that protect public health from these pervasive chemicals. The collective response will determine whether PFAS remains an ongoing concern or becomes a controlled, manageable issue for future generations.