Drink the Water and Die: Nearly Half of U.S. Tap Water is Laced With 'Forever Chemicals'
Urban areas seem to have more forever chemicals in its water systems than rural areas.
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A recent study conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey found that about half the tap water in the country has PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances that have been known to cause serious health issues among the population.
The study found that “forever chemicals” can be found in about 45 percent of the country’s drinking water. The Wall Street Journal reported that the testing—focused on 716 locations—was “one of the most extensive assessments” ever conducted and extended for five years. The study focused on collecting water directly from a homeowners tap where exposure actually occurs, one researcher said.
The research found that the greatest exposure to these chemicals were found in some of the most populated regions of the country, including Southern California, and the Eastern Seaboard. Urban areas seem to have more forever chemicals in its water systems than rural areas.
PFAS are a group of over 4,000 synthetic chemicals that have been produced by industries since the 1940s. They are primarily used in fire retarding foams, non-stick cookware, water repellents, waterproof clothes, carpets, textiles, and take-out containers.
These toxic chemicals do not break down naturally and accumulate over time in humans, animals, and the overall environment. But their most common source is groundwater. These “forever chemicals” are linked to kidney and testicular cancers, thyroid disease, and high cholesterol. Health officials believe that 99 percent of Americans have at least some PFAS in their blood.
“This USGS study can help members of the public to understand their risk of exposure and inform policy and management decisions regarding testing and treatment options for drinking water,” Kelly Smalling, a USGS research chemist and lead author of the new study, told NPR.
TRENDPOST: The Trends Journal has reported extensively on these chemicals and their impact on the population’s health.
Analysis published in Environmental Health Perspectives said scientists believe that these chemicals can lead to health problems like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
NPR noted that these researchers recommend that concerned individuals contact their state environmental protection agency or health department, and your local water utility to find out what actions they can take to limit any risks. Traditional drinking water treatment technologies are not able to remove them.