A new study with Michigan State University researchers reveals lasting PFAS effects in a Michigan community’s drinking water near an old paper mill landfill.
PFAS are “forever chemicals” that enter the body and don’t break down easily. They’re often found in products like nonstick pans and waterproof gear.
The study focused on Parchment, Michigan, where PFAS contamination in drinking water was first identified in 2018. This is the first study to examine PFAS in both tap water and blood in a community exposed to the chemicals.
Courtney Carignan, MSU assistant professor and lead researcher, shares key findings from the study.
“The levels that we see in blood being elevated and for some people were above what the National Academies has recommended in terms of where you would start to need additional medical screening for certain PFAS-related health effects,” Carignan said. “It’s good that this community got that intervention.”
The study found that PFAS compounds lingered in the body, even three years after switching to clean water. The findings give a starting point for understanding PFAS risks and how well intervention strategies work.
Research shows PFAS compounds are found in the blood of most Americans. Those with the highest levels were people exposed at work or via contaminated drinking water.
