Groundwater For Over 70 Million Americans Could Contain ‘Forever Chemicals’ USGS Says

  • Forever Chemicals Threaten Drinking Water: A new study by the USGS suggests groundwater for over 70 million Americans might be contaminated with “forever chemicals.”
  • Forever Chemicals Defined: These are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), man-made chemicals known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.
  • Health Concerns: Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various health problems, including cancer, immune system issues, and developmental problems in children.
  • Contamination Source: The study used private well data and found evidence of PFAS contamination in areas with industries known to use these chemicals.
  • Limited Public Water System Data: The study focused on private wells, and data on PFAS levels in public water systems is currently limited.
  • Need for Further Investigation: The USGS emphasizes the need for more comprehensive testing of both public and private water supplies to understand the full extent of PFAS contamination.

Read more at Politico.

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