Drinking water contamination is a public health concern in North America with long lasting effects – often the results of industrial accidents and polluted sites. Following reports that indicated tainted firefighting foam may have contaminated the water supply, this article will be looking at some instances of PFAS contamination in drinking water and offer advice on how to address the issue.
What are PFASs?
PFASs are chemicals that have been used in a variety of products, including nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, and firefighting foams. They are very persistent in the environment and can bioaccumulate in humans and animals.
Pfas water contamination causes cancer and a variety of other health effects, including liver damage, thyroid disease, reduced fertility, high cholesterol, and obesity.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified PFASs as “emerging contaminants” and is currently investigating their potential health effects.
In recent years, PFAS contamination of drinking water has become a major concern in the United States. A number of communities have discovered that their tap water is contaminated with PFAS from local factories or military bases.
If you live in an area where PFAS contamination of drinking water is a concern, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your family:
• Use only bottled or filtered water for drinking and cooking.
• Do not use tap water for preparing baby formula.
• If you have private well water, have it tested regularly for PF
What is PFAS drinking water contamination?
PFAS drinking water contamination occurs when water supplies are contaminated with PFAS chemicals. These chemicals can enter the water through a variety of means, including industrial discharges, landfills, and wastewater treatment plants. Once in the water, PFAS chemicals can remain there for long periods of time and can be difficult to remove.
PFAS chemicals have been linked to a number of health concerns, including cancer, developmental problems, and immune system disorders. Therefore, it is important for people who are using local tap water to be aware of the potential for PFAS contamination. There are a few simple steps that people can take to reduce their exposure to these chemicals, including using filtered water for drinking and cooking, avoiding using non-stick cookware, and choosing products that do not contain PFAS chemicals.
How are PFASs harmful to human health?
PFASs are man-made chemicals that have been used in a variety of industries for over 50 years. These chemicals are very stable and do not easily break down in the environment. They have been found in a variety of consumer products, such as nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, food packaging, and carpets.
PFASs are harmful to human health because they can accumulate in the body and cause a variety of adverse effects, including liver damage, thyroid hormone disruption, infertility, cancer, and developmental problems. In addition, PFASs are persistent in the environment and can contaminate drinking water supplies. As a result, it is important for everyone to be aware of the potential risks associated with exposure to these chemicals.
The PFAS Contamination Fact Sheet
What are PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals that include PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid). PFAS has been manufactured and used in a variety of industries since the 1950s.
Why are PFASs a concern?
Exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse health effects, including cancer, immune system suppression, endocrine disruption, and developmental effects. In addition, these chemicals are very persistent in the environment and can accumulate in the food chain.
How do people get exposed to PFAS?
People can be exposed to PFAS through drinking water, eating contaminated food, using consumer products that contain PFAS, or working in an occupation that uses or manufactures PFAS.
What is being done about PFAS contamination?
In 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a national strategy for addressing PFAS contamination. The EPA is also working with state and local partners to address drinking water contamination, it has set interim drinking water standards for two PFAS: PFOA and PFOS.
How do I find out if my local drinking water has PFAS contamination?
If you live in the United States, you can find out if your local drinking water has PFAS contamination by visiting the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) website. The EPA has a searchable database that will tell you if any water systems in your area have been tested for PFAS contamination. If your local water system has not been tested, you can contact your state’s environmental agency to find out if testing is planned.
What can I do about PFAS contamination?
If your local water supply has been contaminated with PFAS, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your family.
1. Drink and cook with filtered water. There are a variety of water filtration systems available that can remove PFAS from your water.
2. Avoid using products that contain PFAS. This includes non-stick cookware, fast food wrappers, and some types of carpeting.
3. Wash your clothes in cold water. This will help to prevent PFAS from being released into the air during the drying process.
4. Keep your home well-ventilated. This will help to prevent PFAS from building up indoors.
5. Talk to your doctor about any health concerns you may have related to PFAS exposure.
Conclusion
It’s important to be aware of the potential for PFAS contamination in your local tap water, especially if you live in an area where it is known to be present. While there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure, the best way to protect yourself and your family is to use filtered water for drinking, cooking, and brushing your teeth. If you are concerned about PFAS exposure, talk to your doctor or a local environmental health specialist.
