What Health Risks are Linked to Forever Chemical Exposure?
Recent studies have shown a shocking fact – at least 45% of the nation’s tap water is estimated to have one or more types of the chemicals known as per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, or PFAS, according to a new study by the U.S. Geological Survey.
PLEASE NOTE: AS OF SEPTEMBER 2025 – WE ARE NO LONGER TAKING THESE CLAIMS.
There are more than 12,000 types of what are commonly called “Forever Chemicals” PFAS, not all of which can be detected with current tests; the USGS study tested for the presence of 32 types.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large, complex group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in consumer products around the world since about the 1950’s. They are ingredients used in various everyday products. Some examples include: PFAS can be used to keep food from sticking to packaging (microwave popcorn bags) or non-stick cookware, making clothes and carpets resistant to stains, and create firefighting foam that is more effective.
PFAS molecules have a chain of linked carbon and fluorine atoms. Because the carbon-fluorine bond is one of the strongest, these chemicals do not degrade easily in the environment.
Exposure to PFAS can have serious health consequences. Studies have linked PFAS to a range of health issues, including cancer. PFAS chemicals have been linked to an increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, and other health problems.
In addition, children born to mothers exposed to PFAS during pregnancy have been found to have lower birth weights and increased risk of developmental delays. Studies have also found that PFAS chemicals can accumulate in the body over time and can be passed from one generation to the next.
Explore the different ways PFAS affects our communities and the world via the following PFAS topics.
| What are PFAS? | PFAS Water Contamination Maps in the US | What brands contain PFAS? |
| PFAS Military Base List | PFAS Military Base List in Canada | Biggest sources of PFAS |
| PFAS Litigation/Current | Most common Types of PFAS | PFAS Lawyers/Attorneys |
Similar to the PFAS concern is the water contamination problem at the Marine base Camp Lejeune, where reports state that as many as one million Marines and family members may have been exposed to various chemicals that leached into the camp’s water supply.
Our attorneys have been fighting for victims of environmental contamination for decades, providing relief for individuals and families when they need it most. Schmidt National Law Group has helped victims of chemical contamination where ever and whenever they may happen.
Related Contamination Issues and Topics:
NEW: PFAS found on military bases across the US. Read about the Military bases linked to cancer.
NEW: Silicosis Lawsuit & Silica Lung Diseases
NEW: Toxic PFAS Pollution in Canada
PFAS Forever Chemicals page updated on January 30, 2025.