Are PFAS “forever chemicals” harming your health?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large family of man-made chemicals used since the 1950s in products like non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, firefighting foams, and food packaging. What makes PFAS unique is their carbon-fluorine bonds, among the strongest in chemistry, which makes them highly resistant to breakdown. Because they persist for years in both the environment and the body, they are called “forever chemicals.”

How People Are Exposed to PFAS

• Drinking water contaminated near industrial sites, airports, and military bases.
• Food and food packaging, especially fish, dairy, and produce from polluted areas, and grease-resistant wrappers or boxes.
• Consumer products and dust, such as stain-resistant textiles, cosmetics, and non-stick cookware.
• Occupational exposure, especially in chemical manufacturing, firefighting, and electronics industries.

Health Effects of PFAS

Research links PFAS to a wide range of health concerns. Elevated cholesterol is one of the most consistent findings. Immune system changes include reduced vaccine response, particularly in children. Reproductive effects include preeclampsia and reduced fertility, while thyroid and other hormonal disruptions are also suspected.

PFAS accumulate in the liver and kidneys, with associations to altered liver enzymes, higher uric acid, and kidney effects. Long-term high exposures have been linked to kidney and testicular cancers.

That said, risk depends on the degree of exposure. Low-level exposure, which is common in the general population, carries uncertain health effects. Higher exposure occurs in communities with contaminated drinking water or in certain occupations. Pregnant women, infants, and children may be more vulnerable to PFAS due to developmental sensitivity and higher exposure per body weight.

Testing for PFAS

Testing for PFAS is possible but nuanced. Blood tests measure several common PFAS and are considered the gold standard, though they cost $400-600. They confirm exposure but cannot identify the source or predict disease risk.

Environmental testing, such as checking drinking water, may also be valuable and is sometimes subsidized by state programs.

Should You Be Worried?

Awareness is important, but not everyone needs testing. If you live near a known contamination site or work in a high-risk job, testing and follow-up may be appropriate. For most people, practical steps like using water filters certified to remove PFAS, avoiding PFAS-containing products when possible, and staying informed through trusted sources like the EPA and CDC are wise.