Billions Lost Annually Due to Health Impacts of ‘Forever Chemicals’

A recent study led by the University of Arizona reveals that health issues stemming from contamination by “forever chemicals” could cost the United States at least $8 billion annually. This figure represents social costs associated with the adverse health effects linked to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found in drinking water.

The research, which focuses on data from New Hampshire between 2010 and 2019, examines the outcomes of births near PFAS-contaminated sites. The findings indicate that mothers who relied on groundwater from wells downstream of these contaminated locations experienced significantly worse health outcomes for their infants. Compared to similar mothers using upstream wells, they faced higher rates of first-year infant mortality, increased instances of preterm births—including some occurring before 28 weeks—and more cases of low birth weight, including infants weighing less than 2.2 pounds.

This analysis builds on previous laboratory and public health research, providing new evidence of the serious impacts of PFAS exposure on infants. By extrapolating findings to the broader population, the study estimates that PFAS contamination imposes substantial costs due to medical care, long-term health impacts, and diminished lifetime earnings for affected babies.

Dr. Tim Sandle, the Editor-at-Large for science news at Digital Journal, notes that these findings underscore the potential health benefits that could arise from effective PFAS cleanup and regulation. Removing these chemicals from drinking water not only promises improved health outcomes but could also yield significant long-term economic benefits.

Understanding the Impact of PFAS

PFAS were initially developed to create protective coatings that resist heat, oil, and water, and they are commonly used in various products and firefighting activities. Dubbed “forever chemicals,” they are resistant to natural degradation, leading to long-lasting environmental contamination. The study specifically examines two long-chain PFAS—PFOA and PFOS—which are no longer manufactured in the United States but persist in the soil and continue to leach into groundwater.

Previous research has indicated that exposure to PFAS poses health risks, particularly for infants, who may experience low birth weight or even fatal outcomes due to exposure through their pregnant mothers. However, prior studies lacked a method to randomize PFAS exposure effectively. This research addresses that gap by demonstrating clear connections between PFAS contamination and negative birth outcomes, with implications that extend throughout the lives of affected children.

The work is published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, under the title “PFAS-contaminated drinking water harms infants.” This new evidence adds to the body of research calling for urgent action to mitigate the impacts of these hazardous substances on public health.

As discussions around environmental health and safety continue to gain momentum, the economic and social ramifications highlighted in this study could catalyze further regulatory initiatives aimed at tackling PFAS contamination. The urgency of addressing these issues is underscored by the significant costs associated with the health impacts of these chemicals, making a compelling case for immediate action.