PFAS, or polyfluoroalkyl substances, are often called forever chemicals because they don't break down in the environment or the human body. The chemicals have been used for decades in products like nonstick cookware, waterproof jackets, fast-food wrappers, and firefighting foam. These chemicals have contributed to the usable materials people use daily; however, they also cause serious public health concerns. Examples of them are increased risk of cancers, damages to the liver and the immune system.
Black, Hispanic, and low-income communities are more likely to live in areas where PFAS levels in drinking water are extremely high. This means many people in these communities are cooking with, showering in, and drinking water that may put them at serious risk of health problems. Reports have suggested that these forever chemicals are known to trigger or cause cancer, thyroid diseases, cholesterol issues, immune system problems, and developmental issues, especially in children.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has started to take action on PFAS. Recently, they have posted national drinking standards for six types of PFAS. They have listed certain PFAS as hazardous substances and expanded cleanup efforts by announcing programs such as Superfund. However, some organizations are slow to take action, such as the U.S. Air Force. For example, this is currently happening in New Mexico, near Cannon Air Force Base. People have used firefighting foam on this base for years, which has seeped through the surrounding environment by contaminating nearby water.