You’ve probably heard of “forever chemicals”—but what are they really, and should you be worried?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of synthetic chemicals found in a surprising number of everyday items, from nonstick pans to waterproof jackets. But their most concerning presence may be the one you can’t see: in your tap water.
As these chemicals accumulate in drinking water supplies across the U.S., so does concern about their potential health impacts. In this blog, we’ll break down what the current science says about PFAS health concerns, how these chemicals end up in your water, and how to protect your family—starting with home water testing from TestPFAST.
Why Are PFAS Called “Forever Chemicals”?
PFAS earned their nickname because they don’t break down naturally in the environment. Instead, they linger in soil, water, and even in the human body for years.
That means small amounts of exposure—like drinking contaminated water daily—can add up over time and increase the risk of health problems.
More than 45% of U.S. drinking water sources may contain detectable levels of PFAS, according to a recent U.S. Geological Survey study.
Where PFAS Show Up in Everyday Life
PFAS are used in hundreds of products, including:
- Nonstick cookware (like Teflon)
- Water-resistant outdoor gear
- Stain-proof furniture and carpets
- Fast food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags
- Firefighting foams used on military bases and airports
From there, PFAS can seep into the ground and contaminate nearby water sources—especially wells and municipal supplies in high-risk areas.
The Health Concerns You Should Know About
Scientists and public health experts have been studying PFAS for decades, and while research is still ongoing, the evidence is growing. Long-term exposure to PFAS—especially through drinking water—has been linked to a number of health conditions.
Here’s what you need to know:
Cancer Risk
- Studies show PFAS exposure is associated with increased risk of kidney and testicular cancers.
- Some research also suggests potential links to prostate, liver, and pancreatic cancers.
The U.S. EPA has classified certain PFAS as likely human carcinogens. Read more from the EPA
Hormonal and Thyroid Disruption
- PFAS can interfere with thyroid function, which regulates metabolism, mood, and energy.
- They may also disrupt sex hormone balance, contributing to issues like early menopause, menstrual irregularities, or fertility problems.
One study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found PFAS exposure was associated with changes in thyroid hormone levels in both adults and children.
Immune System Suppression
- PFAS may lower your body’s ability to fight off infections and reduce the effectiveness of vaccines.
- This is especially concerning for infants and children, whose immune systems are still developing.
Reproductive and Developmental Effects
- In pregnant people, PFAS exposure has been linked to pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, low birth weight, and preterm birth.
- In children, it may contribute to developmental delays and behavioral concerns, including potential links to ADHD.
Metabolic and Cardiovascular Health
- PFAS have been associated with increased LDL cholesterol, fatty liver disease, obesity, and insulin resistance—which can raise the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
These risks aren’t theoretical—they’ve been documented in human and animal studies, and communities with known PFAS contamination (such as near manufacturing plants or military bases) have seen measurable health impacts.
How to Know If PFAS Are in Your Water
Unfortunately, you can’t see, taste, or smell PFAS in your water. Unless your municipality routinely tests for PFAS (many don’t), you may never know whether your home water supply is affected.
The good news? You can find out for yourself.
Why Test Your Water with TestPFAST
TestPFAST offers an easy, accurate, and science-backed way to check your home’s drinking water for PFAS contamination. Whether you use city water or a private well, our at-home testing kits are designed to help you take control of your health and peace of mind.
How it works:
- Order your test kit online at TestPFAST.com
- Collect your water sample using simple step-by-step instructions
- Mail it back using the prepaid shipping label
- Get certified lab results with a clear report on which PFAS compounds (if any) were found.
If your results show elevated PFAS levels, we’ll help guide you through the next steps—like filtration options and when to retest.
What to Do If Your Water Contains PFAS
If PFAS are detected in your drinking water, there are effective solutions available:
- Install an NSF-certified filter such as reverse osmosis or activated carbon
- Use bottled or filtered water for drinking, cooking, and formula preparation
- Retest regularly to make sure your filtration system is working
And don’t forget: your doctor may want to know about any known PFAS exposure, especially if you’re pregnant, immunocompromised, or managing chronic health conditions.
Clean water is one of the most basic—and most essential—ingredients for good health. But in the case of PFAS, it’s not always guaranteed. Testing your water is a simple but powerful way to protect yourself and your family from potential long-term health risks.
So don’t wait for a boil notice, a news story, or a government report. Be proactive. Be informed. Know what’s in your water.
Order your PFAS home water testing kit today at TestPFAST.com