Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the United States: Current knowledge and regulatory context

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic chemicals widely used in industrial and consumer products since the 1940s due to their resistance to heat, water, and oil. PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" for their environmental persistence and bioaccumulation and have been detected globally in water, soil, wildlife, and humans. Their widespread presence has raised significant health concerns, particularly surrounding their potential carcinogenicity. Legacy PFAS (e.g., PFOA and PFOS) have been linked to increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer while there are also indications of PFAS being linked to breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. In response, regulatory efforts in the U.S. have accelerated, with the EPA and several states introducing limits, bans, and cleanup policies targeting PFAS. Ongoing research and policy development are essential to mitigate exposure risks, regulate replacement of chemicals, and address the long-term health and environmental consequences of PFAS contamination.