Here’s what you need to know—especially if you’re concerned about your health, your family, or the safety of your drinking water. 

What are PFAS? And why are they everywhere? 

• PFAS stands for “per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.” These synthetic chemicals are used to make products resistant to heat, oil, water, and stains. 

• There are thousands of PFAS compounds. The most studied include PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA, GenX (HFPO-DA), and PFBS. 

• They’re used in nearly everything…from food packaging, carpets, cookware, and clothing to firefighting foams, electronics, and construction materials. 

• PFAS don’t break down easily in the environment, or in the human body. That’s why they’re called “forever chemicals”. 

The Invisible Threat: How PFAS Enter Your Body 

You don’t need to work in a chemical plant to be exposed to PFAS. Most exposure happens silently, through everyday routines: 

• Drinking water from PFAS-contaminated wells or municipal systems 

• Eating food grown in contaminated soil 

• Inhaling PFAS particles from indoor dust or air 

• Absorbing small amounts through skin contact with treated fabrics or consumer products 

Unusual but proven fact: Independent testing has found PFAS on the wrappers, bowls, and boxes used in many fast food and takeout restaurants—making them an everyday exposure risk. 

Over time, PFAS build up in your blood, organs, and even breast milk. That means even low-level exposure can add up to real risk over a lifetime. 

The Risks Are Real: What the Science Says About PFAS Health Effects 

Leading health agencies—including the EPA, CDC, and ATSDR (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry)—link PFAS exposure to a wide range of effects, depending on the PFAS type, the level of exposure, and an individual’s susceptibility. 

Here’s what long-term exposure to certain PFAS compounds may cause: 

• Increased cholesterol levels and higher risk of cardiovascular disease 

• Lower birth weights and developmental delays in children 

• Reduced immune system function (including lowered vaccine response) 

• Elevated risk of kidney, testicular, thyroid, and liver cancers 

• Liver enzyme changes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease 

• Hormonal disruption and reproductive issues (e.g., fertility problems, pregnancy complications) 

• Thyroid dysfunction, including hypothyroidism and autoimmune disease 

• Potential links to Parkinson’s, ulcerative colitis, and bone mineral density loss 

Notably, PFAS effects are not usually sudden or acute. They accumulate over time, and often affect the most vulnerable: developing fetuses, infants, and children. 

What’s Being Done: The Latest on PFAS Regulations and Testing 

After years of scientific pressure, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized enforceable drinking water regulations in April 2024 for six PFAS: 

• PFOA: 4 parts per trillion (ppt) 

• PFOS: 4 ppt 

These limits are based on the best available public health data—but they also reflect the incredibly low levels of detection currently possible using today’s most sensitive testing instruments.  

The latest analytical methods can detect PFAS down to sub-ppt levels in water, depending on the lab and technique. (One ppt parts per trillion is the equivalent of one drop in 20 Olympic-sized swimming pools!) 

In addition to federal rules, some states are imposing stricter standards or mandating PFAS soil testing near landfills, airports, and manufacturing sites. These PFAS regulations are evolving quickly, and compliance requires staying alert. 

Can You Reduce Your Exposure to PFAS? Yes—Here’s How 

Complete avoidance isn’t realistic. But smart choices can help reduce your risk. 

• Choose safe drinking water. If you live in an area with known PFAS contamination—or if you use well water—get your water tested by a certified environmental lab. Then use a filter certified to reduce PFAS. 

• Whenever possible, avoid everyday products that contain PFAS. These include: 

• Teflon coated non-stick cookware 

• Stain-resistant furniture or carpets 

• Water- and grease-resistant food wrappers 

• Some waterproof cosmetics 

• Certain industrial cleaning products 

• Maintain a varied, high-fiber diet. Early research suggests dietary fiber may help reduce some PFAS health risks. 

• Test proactively if you’re at risk. If you’re in a known exposure zone (near airports, military bases, or chemical plants), consider regular water testing and blood work. 

The Bottom Line: Know the Risk, Take the Lead 

PFAS aren’t just another headline—they’re a chemical challenge that touches nearly every part of modern life. But with knowledge and proactive steps, we can all help reduce the risks. 

Here’s what matters most: 

• PFAS are real, and they’re everywhere. From the water you drink to the takeout container you toss, the exposure pathways are both common and invisible. 

• The science is serious. Peer-reviewed studies and government agencies agree that PFAS exposure is potentially linked to a wide range of health concerns. 

• Solutions exist, but they require commitment. You don’t need to live in fear—but you do need to stay informed, ask smart questions, and make thoughtful choices about water, products, and testing partners. 

• Individual and systemic efforts both matter. Personal changes can reduce exposure today—but long-term health and environmental protection will depend on smarter regulations, better product design, and clearer accountability. 

Need support or guidance on PFAS testing or interpretation? Metiri Group experts are here to help. We provide clear, trustworthy insights on water testing, soil testing, and regulatory compliance—backed by advanced lab methods and real-world experience. 

Reach out to Noelle DeStefano (noelle.destefano@metirigroup.com), Metiri’s nationally recognized PFAS expert, to discuss your questions, plan your next project, or learn how PFAS regulations could impact your facility.