PFAS (“forever chemicals”)
Also reported as: PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA, PFBS, GenX, HFPO-DA, PFHxA, PFBA, PFPeA, PFHpA
What it is
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are a large family of man-made chemicals used since the 1940s in non-stick, stain- and water-resistant products and firefighting foams. They break down very slowly in the environment and the body.
Your body
Exposure to certain PFAS, such as PFOA and PFOS, has been linked to effects including changes in cholesterol, reduced vaccine response in children, lower birth weight, and increased risk of some cancers (EPA; Fenton et al., 2021). In 2024, EPA set drinking water limits for several PFAS.
Your home
PFAS do not affect plumbing or appliances.
Federal standard: EPA 2024 rule: PFOA and PFOS 4.0 ppt; see EPA for others
Treatment options that can reduce it
Look for systems certified to NSF/ANSI 53 or 58 for PFOA/PFOS reduction.
Research & sources (4)
Maryland water systems that reported pfas
- Baltimore City Department of Public WorksBaltimore City (also serves most of Baltimore County) · 2025 data
- City of FrederickFrederick · 2025 data
- City of SalisburyWicomico · 2025 data
- Harford County Department of Public WorksHarford · 2025 data
- Howard County Department of Public WorksHoward · 2025 data
- WSSC WaterMontgomery and Prince George's · 2025 data
See common private-well contaminants →
The information on this site is for general education only and is not medical advice. Talk with a qualified health professional about health concerns. Water treatment equipment performance depends on the system, its certification, and proper maintenance.
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