Map Shows US Drinking Water Contaminated With ‘Forever Chemicals’
Summary
Federal data shows that two types of PFAS chemicals, called PFOA and PFOS, have been found in the drinking water of more than 1,700 public water systems in the U.S. These chemicals are very hard to break down and can cause health problems like cancer and liver damage. The EPA is considering giving some water systems more time to meet safety limits for these chemicals.Key Facts
- PFOA and PFOS are man-made chemicals part of the PFAS group, used in products like stain-resistant coatings and firefighting foams.
- These chemicals are called "forever chemicals" because they do not break down easily and can remain in the environment for a long time.
- The EPA’s recent monitoring found over 1,700 public water systems with at least one sample of PFOA or PFOS at levels equal to or above the federal limit of 4 parts per trillion.
- The international cancer agency says PFOA causes cancer in humans, and PFOS is possibly linked to cancer.
- Health problems related to these chemicals may include liver damage, thyroid disease, high cholesterol, and reproductive issues.
- The EPA’s Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5) collected data on 29 types of PFAS chemicals between 2023 and 2025.
- The EPA quietly updated its website to say companies may still produce, import, or use some PFOA.
- The EPA has proposed letting some water systems have up to two extra years (until 2031) to meet federal safety rules on these chemicals, but the decision is not final.
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