The shocking reality about the state of drinking water in the United States has recently been revealed in an alarming study carried out by the US Geological Survey (USGS).
Their findings: almost half of the country's tap water is contaminated with a family of chemicals known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals" due to their long-term retention in the environment.
These harmful compounds, which can lead to cancer and other health complications, have become a pressing concern for communities nationwide.
Southern California in High Risk
An LA Times piece highlights that Southern California, in particular, has emerged as one of the regions facing a higher probability of tap water contamination with PFAS.
The USGS study also focused on specific cities in Los Angeles County, including Commerce, Montebello, Monterey Park, Vernon, and Downey, where PFAS levels exceeded recommended limits as early as 2019.
Worrisome Findings
The implications of this study are concerning, particularly for areas already dealing with different kinds of pollution. Los Angeles County supervisors have initiated an inquiry to determine the extent of PFAS contamination in drinking water systems.
Meanwhile, experts have urged state and municipal governments to take additional steps to ensure drinking water is free of these dangerous substances.
PFAS were initially classified as "emerging contaminants" by the US Environmental Protection Agency in 2016, and their potential health impacts have since been a matter of concern.
Alarmingly, little is known about the disparities of PFAS contamination in different ethnic communities and the specific harms this pollution may be inflicting on these vulnerable populations.
Addressing the Problem
Researchers from the University of Southern California have embarked on a comprehensive study focusing on predominantly Latino communities in the east and southeast of Los Angeles County.
These areas are already overburdened with environmental pollution, making them more susceptible to the harmful effects of PFAS.
Led by Lida Chatzi, director of USC's Center for Translational Research on Environmental Health, the multidisciplinary study brings together experts from USC's medical and engineering schools.
Their aim is to develop prevention strategies and large-scale, sustainable remediation solutions that can be implemented in a cost-effective manner.
Concerning Effects
Previous research has linked PFAS exposure to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic disorders.
Moreover, a mixture of PFAS has been found to disrupt critical biological processes in youth, increasing the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, developmental disorders, and various types of cancer.
The USC researchers are now investigating the effects of newer PFAS, which have been introduced to replace the harmful ones.
Government Action
While federal officials have long acknowledged the negative health effects of PFAS, government action has been sluggish and narrowly focused.
In a welcome move, the Biden administration has proposed national drinking water standards for six PFAS. However, this is only the tip of the iceberg, as there are more than 12,000 types of these chemicals in existence.
Fortunately, California has taken steps to ban PFAS in various products, from cosmetics to food packaging. State lawmakers are currently considering further legislation to ban PFAS in additional items like artificial turf and menstrual products.
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