PFAS: The "Forever Chemicals" Threatening Our Health and Environment

A certified activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter is one of the most practical ways to reduce PFAS in drinking water at home.

By Dr. Alberto Augsten, Toxicologist and Psychopharmacologist

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of more than 12,000 synthetic chemicals used since the 1940s in non-stick cookware, water- and stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging, firefighting foams, cosmetics, and countless industrial applications. They are called "forever chemicals" because their carbon-fluorine bonds are among the strongest in organic chemistry — they do not degrade in the environment or in the human body.

Why PFAS Matter

Virtually every American carries detectable levels of PFAS in their blood. Exposure has been linked to:

Kidney and testicular cancer

Thyroid disease

High cholesterol

Ulcerative colitis

Pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia

Reduced vaccine response in children

Low birth weight and developmental effects

In 2025–2026, EWG estimated that more than 1.3 million New Yorkers — and tens of millions more Americans — are drinking water with PFAS above the EPA's enforceable limits. Recent EPA proposals to roll back the federal MCLs for PFAS would leave many of these communities without protection.

Where Exposure Happens

Drinking water near military bases, airports, and industrial sites

Non-stick cookware (especially scratched or overheated pans)

Grease-resistant food packaging, microwave popcorn bags, fast-food wrappers

Stain-resistant carpets, upholstery, and outdoor gear

Certain cosmetics, dental floss, and waterproof mascara

Fish and shellfish from contaminated waters

How to Reduce Your Exposure

Filter your drinking water with a certified activated carbon or reverse osmosis system (look for NSF/ANSI 53 or 58 certification for PFAS reduction).

Replace damaged non-stick cookware with stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic.

Avoid grease-resistant food packaging when possible.

Check product labels and use EWG's Skin Deep database for PFAS-free cosmetics.

Follow local fish-consumption advisories.

Advocate locally for stronger PFAS regulation and Superfund cleanups.

The Toxicology Perspective

PFAS represent one of the most consequential environmental health challenges of our generation. The science is clear; the regulatory response has lagged. Personal mitigation helps, but real progress requires upstream action: banning non-essential uses, regulating discharges, and holding polluters accountable.

For toxicology questions, contact your regional Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.