76 Percent Of PA Streams Contain 'Forever Chemicals' In New Study

PENNSYLVANIA — A new study by the U.S. Geological Survey found that a majority of Pennsylvania streams contain man-made "forever chemicals," which have beenlinked to infertility, thyroid problems and several types of cancer.

The study analyzed surface water samples from 161 Pennsylvania streams for 33 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and water chemistry. At least one PFAS was detected in 76 percent of the sampled streams, the analysis found.

Authors of the USGS study, which will be published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, said their findings indicate the need for updated water treatments that can eliminate PFAS contamination in drinking water that is sourced from public waterways.

PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because of their durability in high heat and water, which means they remain in the environment for years without breaking down. They’re found in thousands of consumer products — cookware, cosmetics, food packaging, outdoor apparel and carpets among them — as well as in firefighting foams.

The study found that the highest concentrations of PFAS in sampled streams were in the Philadelphia region: the highest was found in Valley Creek in Chester County, and the researchers also noted Neshaminy Creek in Bucks County.

The levels of four particular PFAS in the streams at these locations exceeded proposed U.S. EPA Hazard indexes for drinking water, the study authors added.

"These study results are critical to determine the best practices that can mitigate surface water contamination and potential exposure to humans, as well as a wide range of aquatic species residing in the surface waters of Pennsylvania and elsewhere as PFAS sources increase with landscape alteration," the authors said.

Click here to read the full study.

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