Are there 'forever chemicals' in your drinking water?

PFAS, or "forever chemicals," are persistent, man-made substances found in everything from nonstick cookware to nearly half of U.S. tap water. These chemicals, linked to serious health conditions like cancer and immune system suppression, possess exceptionally strong carbon-fluorine bonds that prevent them from breaking down in the environment or the human body. To limit exposure, individuals should verify local water quality through state health departments or utility reports and utilize certified filtration systems—specifically granular activated carbon, ion exchange, or reverse osmosis. Beyond water, reducing contact with PFAS involves auditing personal care products, food packaging, and clothing for third-party certifications like Green Seal or Ocotex 100. Because no medical treatment currently exists to remove these toxins from the body, proactive prevention through informed consumer choices and environmental awareness remains the most effective strategy for managing individual risk.