Forever Chemicals Found In 50% Of U.S. Faucets

Drinking water from nearly half of US faucets likely contains “forever chemicals” that may cause cancer and other health problems, said a recent government study released, John Flesher reported for the Associated Press (AP).

Photo Insert: The synthetic compounds known collectively as PFAS are contaminating drinking water to varying extents in large cities and small towns — and in private wells and public systems.

The synthetic compounds known collectively as PFAS are contaminating drinking water to varying extents in large cities and small towns — and in private wells and public systems, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said.

Researchers described the study as the first nationwide effort to test for PFAS in tap water from private sources in addition to regulated ones.

Forever chemicals are widespread, showing up in consumer products as diverse as nonstick pans, food packaging and water-resistant clothing and making their way into water supplies.

As USGS is a scientific research agency, the report makes no policy recommendations. But the information is significant, said lead author Kelly Smalling, a research hydrologist.

The US Environmental Protection Agency in March proposed the first federal drinking water limits on six forms of PFAS, or per-and polyfluorinated substances, which remain in the human body for years and don’t degrade in the environment.

A final decision is expected later this year or in 2024.

The government hasn’t prohibited companies using the chemicals from dumping them into public wastewater systems, said Scott Faber, a senior vice president of the Environmental Working Group, an advocacy organization.

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