Private well water in 18% of Pennsylvania homes tested positive for harmful PFAS chemicals, according to a new study conducted by Penn State.
**Headline:** Private Well Water in Pennsylvania Found Contaminated with PFAS: What Homeowners Need to Know
In a recent study conducted by Penn State researchers, it was found that 65% of private wells across Pennsylvania contain the harmful chemicals known as PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), also known as "forever chemicals." Of these wells, 18% exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for drinking water, highlighting the widespread presence of these chemicals in private wells, particularly in the southeastern region of Pennsylvania [1].
The good news is that while the levels of PFAS found were generally not extremely high, they are still treatable with available household technologies. This means that residents can take simple steps to reduce PFAS levels in their well water [1].
The presence of PFAS in private wells is a matter of concern due to its potential health risks. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various health issues, including cancer and other serious health conditions. These chemicals have been shown to persist in the environment and human bodies, accumulating over time and potentially causing long-term health issues [4].
In light of these findings, it is essential for homeowners to be aware of their risk based on where they live. Residents with private wells in Pennsylvania can hire certified laboratories to test their drinking water for PFAS. If the water is contaminated, there are a number of ways to treat it [5].
On a regulatory level, the EPA has set MCLs for certain PFAS compounds like PFOA and PFOS, and there is ongoing discussion about adjusting regulations for other PFAS substances [3]. In Pennsylvania, citizen science initiatives and research studies are contributing to a better understanding of PFAS contamination and potential solutions. However, more comprehensive regulatory actions and public awareness campaigns are needed to address the widespread nature of PFAS contamination in private wells.
The health risks associated with PFAS exposure are a significant concern, and efforts to test and treat PFAS contamination in private wells are essential to protect public health. The study emphasizes the need for awareness about PFAS and what individuals can do to manage their exposure through drinking water [6].
It is important to note that while state and federal regulations restrict the use of PFAS in public drinking water, private wells are not regulated, leaving homeowners responsible for testing and treating their own water [7]. With more than 1 million households in Pennsylvania relying on private wells, this issue affects a significant portion of the population.
The study also did not find any correlation between PFAS contamination and the proximity of wells to rural areas impacted by sewage sludge or biosolids [8]. This suggests that the source of PFAS contamination in private wells may be more widespread and complex than initially thought.
The ongoing research into PFAS is part of a global effort to understand and address this persistent problem. As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for residents to stay informed about the risks and available treatment options.
This story is part of our website's News Climate Desk, focusing on news and solutions for the changing region.
[1] Preisendanz, H., et al. (2022). Prevalence and Spatial Distribution of PFAS Contamination in Private Wells across Pennsylvania. Environmental Science & Technology. [2] Pennsylvania State University. (2022, February 24). Study finds PFAS in 65% of Pennsylvania private wells. Retrieved from https://news.psu.edu/story/653277/2022/02/24/research/study-finds-pfas-in-65-of-pennsylvania-private-wells [3] U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). PFAS. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/pfas [4] Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. (2018). ToxFAQs for Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid (PFOS). Retrieved from https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/tfacts13.pdf [5] Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. (n.d.). Private Well Testing and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.dep.pa.gov/Programs/Water/DrinkingWater/PrivateWells/Pages/Private-Well-Testing-and-Treatment.aspx [6] Preisendanz, H. (2022, February 24). PFAS in Pennsylvania Private Wells: What Homeowners Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.pennlive.com/opinion/2022/02/pfas-in-pennsylvania-private-wells-what-homeowners-need-to-know.html [7] Pennsylvania State University. (2022, February 24). Study finds PFAS in 65% of Pennsylvania private wells. Retrieved from https://news.psu.edu/story/653277/2022/02/24/research/study-finds-pfas-in-65-of-pennsylvania-private-wells [8] Preisendanz, H., et al. (2022). Prevalence and Spatial Distribution of PFAS Contamination in Private Wells across Pennsylvania. Environmental Science & Technology.
- It is crucial for homeowners in Pennsylvania, especially those with private wells, to remain vigilant and aware about the potential contamination of their well water by PFAS, as this chemical can pose health risks linked to medical conditions such as cancer and other serious health conditions.
- The environmental consequences of climate change can have far-reaching impacts, with issues like PFAS contamination in private wells serving as examples of how chemical substances used in environmental science can affect health and wellness, and highlighting the need for comprehensive regulatory actions and public awareness campaigns addressing these concerns.
