By SRH ‘Forever Chemicals’ in US Drinking Water: Growing ConcernPerfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS compounds, are found in soil, food, home products, and water. These chemicals are abundant in U.S. and other developed nations’ drinking water, prompting scientists to explore regulation and mitigation. PFAS exposure can cause cancer, reproductive, and immune system disorders. PFAS are called “forever chemicals” since they don’t break down and are hard to eradicate.According to the ATSDR, PFAS compounds have been used in nonstick cookware, water-repellent garments, stain-resistant fabrics, cosmetics, and firefighting foams since the 1940s. PFAS chemicals were popular because they withstand water, grease, oil, and heat. Over 50 years later, these everlasting chemicals are a health and environmental threat.Earlier this year, the EPA reported worrisome levels of forever chemicals in America’s groundwater, prompting the first national, enforceable drinking water standard to protect communities […]