By Mimi Nguyen Ly

Nearly half of the tap water in the United States is estimated to have what are known as “forever chemicals,” also referred to as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

The study by the U.S. Geological Survey tested for the presence of 32 types of PFAS from samples taken from 716 locations—269 private wells and 447 public supply—across the nation from 2016 to 2021.

Based on these samples, USGS researchers determined by modeling that, on average, at least one PFAS is detected in about 45 percent of U.S. tap water.

There are more than 12,000 types of PFAS, which are invisible man-made chemicals, high levels of which have been linked to adverse health issues, including various cancers, reproductive issues, and adverse effects on immune function. But not all of the PFAS types can be detected with current tests.

Map of worst areas
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PFAS are colloquially referred to as “forever chemicals” because they don’t easily break down in the human body or the environment, and some of them never fully break down. These substances are known for their resistance to grease, oil, water, and heat, and as such, can be used in a wide range of products, including non-stick cookware, stain- and water-resistant fabrics and carpets, as well as cleaning products, paints, water repellents, and fire-fighting foams.

More Risk of PFAS Exposure in Urban Areas

Urban areas are more at risk of PFAS exposure compared to rural areas, with the forever chemicals detected in over 70 percent of urban areas or areas with a known history of PFAS contamination, compared to 8 percent of rural areas.

Researchers observed the exposure in urban areas including around the Great Plains, Great Lakes, Eastern Seaboard, and Central/Southern California regions.