PFAS-contaminated drinking water harms infants
Robert Baluja1, Bo Guo2, Wesley Howden3
1Cornerstone Research, Los Angeles, CA 90013.
Summary
Exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water is linked to increased infant mortality and adverse birth outcomes. PFAS contamination poses significant health costs, exceeding water remediation expenses.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Widespread human exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is documented.
- Evidence linking PFAS exposure to specific human health impacts remains limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between PFAS-contaminated water exposure and adverse infant health outcomes.
- To estimate the economic burden of PFAS contamination on public health.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of birth data from New Hampshire (2010-2019).
- Comparison of infant health outcomes between mothers exposed to PFAS-contaminated water versus unexposed controls.
- Extrapolation of health costs to the contiguous U.S.
Main Results:
- Increased first-year infant mortality (191%) in areas with PFAS-contaminated water.
- Higher rates of preterm birth (before 28 wk gestation) (168%) and low birth weight (<1,000 g) (180%) among exposed infants.
- Estimated annual social costs of PFAS contamination in the U.S. at approximately $8 billion.
Conclusions:
- PFAS in drinking water is associated with significant adverse infant health outcomes.
- The health costs associated with PFAS contamination substantially outweigh the costs of water supply remediation.
- Urgent public health interventions are needed to address PFAS contamination.
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