PFAS - The Forever Chemicals

Per – and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals that are resistant to grease, water, and stains.
PFAS are used in many consumer products like non-stick cookware, food packaging, and stain/water-resistant textiles, and have been found in drinking water systems.
Because PFAS use is widespread and it takes many years for them to break down in the environment, PFAS are found in the bodies of people and animals all over the world.
Scientists are still learning about the health effects of PFAS exposure.
There are simple steps you can take to reduce PFAS exposure such as cutting back on fast food and avoiding stain-repellent textiles and non-stick cookware.

What is PFAS:

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used in many consumer products like non-stick cookware, food packaging, and stain/water-resistant textiles.
PFAS chemicals have been found in some drinking water systems across the United States.
Most PFAS do not break down and remain in the environment for a long time.
PFAS can enter the body through eating and drinking.

What are the common sources of PFAS exposure?

Drinking contaminated municipal water or private well water
Eating fish caught from water contaminated by PFAS
Eating wild game caught in areas contaminated by PFAS
Eating food that was packaged in material that contains PFAS such as fast food and microwave popcorn
Using some consumer products such as non-stick cookware, stain-resistant carpeting, and water repellent clothing
Personal care products (certain shampoos, dental floss, cosmetics)
Accidentally swallowing contaminated soil or dust (common among young children)
Certain cleaning products
Working at a job that uses PFAS chemicals (ex: firefighter using aqueous film-forming foam, AFFF)

Should I test my water for PFAS?

If you are concerned about PFAS possibly being in your drinking water, contact your water supplier or local health department.
The EPA sets standards to limit levels of some contaminants in public (municipal) drinking water systems, but there are currently no enforceable (required) drinking water limits for PFAS. However, the EPA released “health advisory” levels for four PFAS. Several states, including New York and New Jersey, have set enforceable limits (MCLs) for certain PFAS in drinking water.
You can find your local municipal water system test results here on the EPA website (or contact your local water department).
If levels of PFAS in your drinking water are higher than the levels set by the EPA or your state health department, use an alternate water source (or a filter certified to remove PFAS by the National Science Foundation-NSF) until the water system reduces PFAS.
Learn more about New York State water systems and PFAS.

How can PFAS impact my family’s health?

Scientists are still learning about the health effects of PFAS exposure. Research involving humans suggests that PFAS exposure may be linked to:

Higher cholesterol levels
Slight reduction in birth weight
Lowered immune system (“antibody”) response to certain vaccines/infections
Increased risk of cancer: kidney cancer, testicular cancer, breast cancer
Increased risk of high blood pressure and preeclampsia in the pregnant person
Changes in liver enzymes
Thyroid alterations
Increased risk of Ulcerative Colitis

Should I test my child for PFAS?

In July 2022, the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) released a report that recommends that healthcare providers offer PFAS blood testing to those “likely to have a history of elevated exposure” to PFAS. Those who may have higher exposure to PFAS include people living in communities with PFAS-contaminated drinking water or those who work in jobs that involve PFAS chemicals (ex: firefighter).

What can PFAS blood tests tell you?
- The blood test can determine how your PFAS levels compare to other people living in the United States.
- The results cannot help doctors predict the risk of future health effects.
- For children with PFAS levels higher than the general population, the NASEM report provides guidance for doctors (see table below for pediatric recommendations). The recommendations for adult patients can be found in the NASEM report.

PFAS testing may not be available at commercial or clinical laboratories.
PFAS testing is usually not covered by insurance and can be expensive.
You may be offered a free PFAS blood test as part of some research studies being done in some communities with PFAS contamination in the water.

PFAS Blood Test Result*	NASEM-Recommended Clinical Follow-Up for Pediatric Patients
<2 ng/mL	No PFAS-related medical follow-up is required, continue with regular check-ups.
2 – <20 ng/mL	Reduce the possible sources of PFAS exposure (see section below: “How can I reduce my family’s exposure to PFAS?”) Pediatric healthcare providers should prioritize testing for high cholesterol (with a “lipid panel” blood test) for patients 9-11 years old and again between 17-21 years old. This is consistent with the universal cholesterol test recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
≥20 ng/mL	Reduce the possible sources of PFAS exposure (see section below: “How can I reduce my family’s exposure to PFAS?”) Pediatric healthcare providers should prioritize the following tests: Blood test for high cholesterol (with a “lipid panel”) for patients 9-11 years old and again between 17-21 years old. This is consistent with the universal cholesterol test recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Blood test for thyroid function (with a TSH test) at well visits for patients over age 18 years Assess for the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer and ulcerative colitis at well visits for patients over 15 years

*Results should be the sum of the 7 common PFAS compounds discussed in the NASEM report. The abbreviation ng/mL means “nanograms per milliliter” of PFAS in the blood.

How can I reduce my family’s exposure to PFAS?

There is no treatment to remove PFAS from the body. Reducing future exposure is the most important step.

Cut back on carry-out foods: PFAS coats paper and cardboard of some food containers
Skip microwavable popcorn bags, as they are coated with PFAS.
Consider replacing nonstick pots, pans and utensils (especially those cracked or chipped) and choose safer alternatives for cooking such as stainless steel and cast iron.
Do not use optional stain-repellent treatments on furnishings.
Check for local consumption advisories for fish and wildlife caught in areas that may be contaminated with PFAS.
If you have been notified that your water system has PFAS levels higher than limits set by the EPA or your state health department, use an alternative water source (or a filter certified to remove PFAS) until the water system has reduced PFAS.
Clean up dust where PFAS and other chemicals may settle using a wet mop or vacuum with a HEPA filter.
Shop smart, read labels. When possible, choose personal care products and household products without PFAS. Contact manufacturers or check the Environmental Working Group (EWG) online databases for personal care products and household products.