PFAS Risks Vary by Location – New Maps Reveal Exposure Sources in Food, Water, and Lakes

Understanding PFAS Exposure: A Comprehensive Look

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used in a wide range of consumer products since the 1940s. These chemicals are known for their ability to make items more durable and resistant to heat, oils, stains, grease, and water. Common applications include nonstick cookware like Teflon pots, waterproof rain gear, stain-resistant carpets, and firefighting foam. However, their chemical stability also means they persist in the environment and can accumulate in the human body over time.

Research has linked certain types of PFAS to various health issues, such as thyroid disease, liver damage, and cancers of the kidneys and testicles. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that there is no safe level of exposure to two common PFAS compounds, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). In 2024, the EPA set drinking water standards to limit these contaminants in public water systems.

Despite these regulations, drinking water is not the only source of PFAS exposure. To better understand how people are exposed, researchers analyzed four key pathways: drinking water contamination, food contamination, recreational exposure, and industrial emissions. This study focused on three Great Lakes states—Michigan, New York, and Pennsylvania—to provide insights into PFAS risks across different regions.

PFAS Exposure Patterns

The widespread use and improper disposal of PFAS-containing products have led to their presence in farm fields, drinking water, and water bodies. Fish and shellfish can absorb these chemicals, which can then be ingested by humans through consumption or by swimming in contaminated water.

An analysis of the three states found that the average person consumes about three times more PFAS through food than through drinking water. Researchers examined 19 food items where PFAS have been detected, including seafood such as clams, crab, and shrimp, which tend to have the highest levels. Other foods may also contribute to PFAS exposure, suggesting that these totals might underestimate actual intake.

In terms of water contamination, PFAS was detected in 1,272 out of 2,593 tested public water facilities across Michigan, New York, and Pennsylvania, serving approximately 23 million people. The study revealed distinct patterns of exposure, with Pennsylvania having the highest risk from both food and water, while Michigan had the lowest. This could be attributed to lower PFAS levels in Michigan’s drinking water due to stricter testing and regulation.

Notably, dietary PFAS risk primarily comes from butter, olive oil, and shrimp. Although seafood typically contains higher concentrations of PFAS, the large quantities consumed of butter and olive oil make them significant sources of exposure. It is important to note that not all food sources carry the same level of risk, and the study did not assess the health effects of the detected PFAS levels.

City-Specific Insights

When examining specific cities, Detroit, Philadelphia, and New York City showed varying levels of PFAS exposure. Detroit had an above-average risk of PFAS exposure through food, driven by high consumption of ground beef, baked tilapia, bacon, sausage, and crab. However, its public drinking water had not been tested for PFAS, leaving the water-related risk unknown.

New York City had minimal PFAS exposure risk from its public drinking water, with much lower levels than surrounding suburban areas. Its dietary exposure came mainly from butter and olive oil. Philadelphia also had low water contamination but faced higher risks from consuming shrimp, bacon, and sausage. The city also had a higher risk of exposure through recreational activities on water bodies, though research on this area is still emerging.

Smaller cities like Rochester, New York, and its surrounding areas along Lake Ontario showed elevated risks from recreational exposure. A 2024 study highlighted that airborne pollution and industrial runoff were contributing to PFAS contamination in the Great Lakes, particularly in Lake Ontario.

Reducing PFAS Exposure

To mitigate PFAS exposure, individuals can take several steps. Households with high levels of PFAS in their water should consider using filtration systems. Adjusting dietary choices by reducing consumption of high-risk foods can also help. Additionally, the study's interactive dashboard provides maps of recreational sites near contaminated water bodies, allowing residents to make informed decisions.

Local governments and advocacy groups can use this data to develop policies aimed at reducing PFAS exposure. As research on PFAS continues, staying informed about contamination levels and risks is crucial for protecting public health.

Resources for Further Information

Several resources are available to help the public understand PFAS contamination across the U.S. The EPA offers an online PFAS Analytic Tool that displays locations of contamination through interactive maps. The Environmental Working Group also provides a map highlighting PFAS-contaminated sites and affected water systems.

While these tools offer valuable insights, they do not directly assess individual exposure or risk. As research and policy evolve, access to accurate information remains essential for public awareness and prevention. By staying informed, individuals can take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families from environmental pollution.