“Forever Chemicals” Found in Water; Contaminated Fishes in Most U.S. States

A study by the Environmental Working Group recently discovered contaminated fish in most states in the U.S. Reports say almost every sample had PFAs in them, also known as “forever chemicals”, that last very long in the environment.

Health experts have been giving fair warning about the Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS). The PFAS are also known as “forever chemicals” because they are toxic chemicals made by humans that last very long in the environment. These chemicals are associated with cancer and other diseases and over 95% of Americans who have been tested have levels evident in their blood.

According to Bennett, the Environmental Protection Agency recently collected freshwater fish as samples for a study by the Environmental Working Group. The study reportedly discovered that in most states of the U.S., the fish have been contaminated. Senior scientist David Andrews stated that most samples had “forever chemicals” in them. This means that ingesting a single serving of fish would amount to a year of contaminated water.

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“Forever Chemicals” in Michigan

According to Saberi, the Environmental Working Group has created an interactive map that showed where the fish contaminated with “forever chemicals” have been found. In addition, the map also provides information on what specie of fish has been contaminated with what type of “forever chemicals”.

The U.S. federal government recently introduced regulations that limit “forever chemicals” in drinking water. These regulations suggest an amount 90% lower than the previous guidelines. However, in the meantime, states like Michigan make their own regulations. Abigail Hendershott is leading the state’s effort to detect and resolve “forever chemicals” pollution.

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