There are a number of chemicals in drinking water, but some of them are now considered harmful. PFAS is short for ‘Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substance,’ and they’re typically created to produce materials that resist oil, grease, and water. You’ll usually find them in your clothes, appliances, carpeting, furniture, pizza boxes, or anything that holds or comes into contact with the aforementioned liquids.
PFAS chemicals are dangerous and difficult to remove from water sources. It is important that we learn about PFAS chemicals and speak up about the dangers of these toxins to our own health.
What are PFAS chemicals?
PFAS chemicals are a group of man-made chemicals that include perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). They have been used in a variety of industries, including the manufacture of non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, and stain-resistant fabrics.
PFAS chemicals are persist in the environment and can accumulate in the bodies of humans and animals. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer, liver damage, reduced fertility, and hormonal changes.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified PFOA and PFOS as “emerging contaminants” due to their potential health hazards. The agency is currently working on setting drinking water standards for these chemicals.
In the meantime, to reduce the exposure to PFAs in drinking water, you should start using filtered or bottled water instead of tap water, avoid non-stick cookware, and choose stain-resistant fabrics with caution.
Explaining what they are and what they do in every day life
PFAS are a large group of man-made chemicals that are used in many industries and products, including non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, food packaging, and firefighting foams. Because they are so ubiquitous, most people have been exposed to PFAS through their diet, drinking water, or household dust.
PFAS are persistent in the environment and in our bodies—meaning they don’t break down and they can accumulate over time. Studies have shown that PFAS exposure is linked to a number of health concerns, including liver damage, thyroid problems, hormone disruption, cancer, and fertility issues.
While the EPA has set drinking water standards for two types of PFAS—PFOA and PFOS—many other PFAS remain unregulated. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the potential sources of PFAS in your drinking water and take steps to limit your exposure.
How PFAS chemicals can enter the water supply
There has been a lot of talk lately about PFAS chemicals and how they can end up in our drinking water. But what are these chemicals, and why should we be aware of them?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are man-made chemicals that have been used in a variety of industries for decades. They are resistant to heat, oil, water, and stains, which is why they have been used in everything from non-stick cookware to carpets and clothing.
Unfortunately, PFAS chemicals can also be very dangerous to human health. They have been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer, reproductive issues, hormone disruption, and immune system damage.
One of the ways that PFAS chemicals can enter the water supply is through leaching. This occurs when the chemicals seep out of the products they are used in and into the ground or surface water. This can happen when products containing PFAS are disposed of improperly, or when they break down over time.
Another way that PFAS can enter the water supply is through wastewater discharge. For example, factories that use PFAS-containing products may release the chemicals into the sewer system. From there,
Concerns about elevated levels of PFAS chemicals in drinking water
There has been an increase in public concern over the last few years regarding the possible health effects of exposure to chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals have been used in a variety of industrial and consumer products for many years, and have been detected in a number of environmental settings, including drinking water.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently investigating the potential risks posed by PFAS exposure and is working to develop regulations to protect public health. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to reduce your exposure to these chemicals:
– Check with your local water utility to see if PFAS has been detected in your drinking water, and if so, what steps are being taken to address the contamination.
– If you are on a private well, have your water tested for PFAS contamination.
– Use only cold water for drinking and cooking, as PFAS can be present in hot water at higher levels than in cold water.
– When using non-stick cookware, avoid cooking at high temperatures or preheating the cookware before use.
PFAS related health risks
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in many industries since the 1950s. They are found in a variety of products, including non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, firefighting foams, and food packaging.
While PFAS are effective at repelling water, oil, and grease, they are also very stable and do not break down easily in the environment. As a result, PFAS can linger in the environment for years, accumulating in the bodies of people and animals.
There is growing evidence that exposure to PFAS can cause a variety of health problems, including cancer, liver damage, immune system suppression, and hormone disruption. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to the effects of PFAS exposure.
If you are concerned about PFAS in your drinking water, you can contact your local water utility to find out if any tests have been conducted for these contaminants. You can also have your water tested privately for PFAS.
Tips on how to limit exposure to high levels of PFAS chemicals
1. Avoid using products that contain PFAS.
2. If you must use products that contain PFAS, limit your use and dispose of them properly.
3. Drink and cook with filtered water to avoid exposure to high levels of PFAS chemicals.
4. Consider having your drinking water tested for PFAS levels.