Chemicals In Ohio Drinking Water Analyzed For Health Risks

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio officials have prepared a plan to address and evaluate the prevalence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the state's drinking water. While it's not yet clear what PFAS interaction may do to humans, the chemicals have been tentatively linked to some cancers, liver problems, low birth rates and other ailments.

"The science is still evolving regarding PFAS chemicals, but we know that certain people like unborn babies, infants and children are at higher risk for negative health effects if exposed to them,” said Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Dr. Amy Acton.

Under the state's plan, Ohio EPA will test nearly 1,500 public water systems for PFAS. If the chemicals are detected in a water system, the Ohio Department of Health will work with local health departments to give private water system owners information on the chemicals, how to reduce exposure risks, and point-of-use treatment options like special water filters.

The Ohio Department of Health and Ohio EPA will work with private water system owners to identify resources for sampling and analysis of PFAS and installation and maintenance of water treatment systems.

Testing of public water systems is expected to be finished by the end of 2020, the state said.

“We must fully evaluate the prevalence of PFAS in Ohio’s drinking water to protect public health and the state’s natural resources,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “This plan is the first step in learning if the chemicals have a widespread presence.”

What are PFAS?

PFAS are man-made chemicals found in industry and consumer products across the globe dating to the 1950s. They were used in nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing and stain resistant fabrics and carpets, as well as certain cosmetics and firefighting foams. Additionally, PFAS were found in products that resist grease, water and oil, the Environmental Working Group said. Several studies have linked the chemicals to negative impacts on human health.

The most commonly studied PFAS are perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid, or PFOS. Both have been phased out of production in America, but PFAS can seep into soil, water and air, and take thousands of years to break down. They remain in the environment and can even "build up in people and animals with repeated exposure over time," federal health officials said.

In May 2019, the Environmental Working Group, an activist lobbying organization, released a detailed study on PFAS in water systems and noted the chemicals presence in systems throughout Ohio.