A recent study has found dangerous levels of cancer-causing chemicals, known as "forever chemicals" or PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), in the water supply of the San Francisco Bay Area. These chemicals, linked to cancers and other health issues, have been detected in rainwat..
A recent study has found dangerous levels of cancer-causing chemicals, known as "forever chemicals" or PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), in the water supply of the San Francisco Bay Area. These chemicals, linked to cancers and other health issues, have been detected in rainwater, groundwater, and drinking water across multiple locations. PFAS are used in various industrial applications and household products, and their persistence in the environment poses a significant health risk. Researchers call for urgent action to reduce exposure and better regulate these harmful substances.
For more details, visit Newsweek.
A recent study revealed the presence of cancer-causing chemicals, known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), in water sources across the San Francisco Bay Area. These "forever chemicals," which persist in the environment and accumulate in the human body, have been found in drinking water, groundwater, and rainwater. PFAS are linked to serious health conditions, including cancers, immune disorders, and liver damage. Commonly used in products like firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, and water-resistant fabrics, these chemicals are nearly impossible to break down, leading to long-term environmental and health risks.
The study, conducted by the nonprofit Environmental Working Group (EWG), identified dangerous concentrations of PFAS in the Bay Area's water supply, exceeding safety limits set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). While the EPA has recently introduced new guidelines for PFAS in drinking water, some areas in the Bay Area already show levels higher than the recommended limits, raising concerns about the widespread contamination and the effectiveness of current regulations.
The health risks associated with PFAS are alarming. These chemicals can disrupt hormone function, impair immune systems, and increase the likelihood of cancers such as kidney and testicular cancer. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to PFAS exposure, as these substances can cross the placenta and may negatively affect fetal development.
PFAS have been widely used in industry and consumer products for decades due to their resistance to heat, water, and oil. However, this same resistance makes them incredibly difficult to remove from the environment. As a result, they have been dubbed "forever chemicals." Once released, they can contaminate soil, water, and air, ultimately entering the human body through contaminated food and water.
Efforts to regulate PFAS in the U.S. have been slow. While the EPA has issued non-binding health advisories, there are no enforceable federal limits for PFAS in drinking water. Some states, including California, have implemented stricter guidelines, but experts argue that more comprehensive action is needed to address the growing threat posed by these chemicals.
The EWG and other environmental groups are calling for more stringent regulations and a nationwide ban on non-essential uses of PFAS to protect public health. Meanwhile, residents of affected areas are urged to use water filtration systems capable of removing PFAS from their drinking water as a temporary solution.
Read about Mumbai's water crisis