A study led by the University of Arizona has revealed that contamination from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” in drinking water results in at least $8 billion in annual social costs across the contiguous United States. The findings, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, analyzed birth outcomes in New Hampshire between 2010 and 2019, focusing on mothers residing near contaminated water sources.
Women who received water from wells located downstream of PFAS-contaminated sites experienced higher rates of infant mortality within the first year, increased preterm deliveries—including births before 28 weeks—and a greater incidence of low birth weight, including infants under 2.2 pounds. These real-world observations support earlier laboratory studies linking PFAS exposure to adverse health effects, particularly in vulnerable populations such as newborns.
By extrapolating the data nationally, researchers estimate that each year’s cohort of newborns incurs economic burdens totaling no less than $8 billion, factoring in healthcare expenses, lifelong health complications, and diminished earning potential. The study’s coauthor, Derek Lemoine, an economics professor at the University of Arizona, emphasized that the financial benefits of removing these substances from water supplies likely outweigh the costs of remediation.
The research team, which included hydrologist Bo Guo and economist Ashley Langer, combined expertise in environmental science and economic modeling. Their collaboration began through the Arizona Institute for Resilience, fostering interdisciplinary work. The study focused on long-chain PFAS compounds like PFOA and PFOS, which are no longer produced domestically but persist in soil and groundwater. Guo noted that current groundwater concentrations represent only a fraction of the total environmental load, as most of these chemicals remain trapped in soil, slowly migrating downward.
Although PFAS were originally developed for their resistance to heat, oil, and water—making them useful in consumer goods and firefighting foams—their persistence raises public health concerns. The authors suggest future research should examine newer variants and long-term exposure effects. They also highlight that activated carbon filtration systems, whether implemented at municipal levels or in individual homes, can effectively reduce long-chain PFAS in drinking water. Lemoine advised pregnant women to consider installing and maintaining such filters as a precautionary measure.
“The impacts we observed on infant health go beyond previous findings,” said Langer. “When we project these outcomes over a lifetime, the economic toll is likely even greater than our conservative estimates.”
— news from News-Medical