Recent blood tests have found concerning amounts of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, in residents. These people live at the edge of these very wide, long contamination plumes all over New Mexico. These findings indicate that nearly all of the participants in the statewide testing initiative had measurable levels of these toxic chemicals. These chemicals are notorious for their long-lasting effects on the environment and human body. This visit spotlighted the pervasive use of PFAS in our everyday lives. More importantly, it highlights the work still being done to address our nation’s contamination crisis.
Ensuring equitable assistance His agency will provide assistance to communities with PFAS exposure as they address immediate health effects. The state remains entangled in litigation with the U.S. Defense Department over damages linked to military-related PFAS contamination that has affected numerous locations across the country, including several military bases.
Understanding PFAS and Their Impact
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been utilized in a variety of consumer products, from fast-food packaging and nonstick cookware to clothing and household cleaning agents. Their water and grease-resistant properties, which make them so immensely popular, increase their environmental persistence.
New national testing data solidifies the fact that PFAS contamination at military bases nationwide is a widespread issue. Yet that’s exactly what our recent analysis found. For instance, in New Mexico, almost all—roughly 99.7%—of participants tested positive for one or more PFAS in their bloodstream. Alarmingly, one of every four of these people got to levels that fall into what’s considered the highest concentration tier by national standards.
“We need the whole of New Mexico to stand up and say we’ve had it.” – James Kenney
PFAS exposure has been linked to a number of severe health risks. These substances are very persistent and can stay in the blood for many years after exposure. Previous research has found PFAS concentrations are age-dependent and males typically have higher PFAS concentrations than females. People who have had careers in the military or in aviation have higher PFAS levels. This is probably due to their exposure to firefighting foams that contain these chemicals.
Legal and Environmental Responses
Fortunately, the State of New Mexico has already made moves to address this growing problem. As a result, they enacted legislation that will gradually eliminate and eventually prohibit the sale of products containing intentionally added PFAS. The move is an indication of the increasing public outcry over the health risks these chemicals present. They’ve made their way into our drinking water, soil, and air, and even the bloodstreams of almost all Americans.
The U.S. Canon has invested over $73 million into looking at PFAS contamination. In addition, they’ve begun installing pilot projects to clean up the affected groundwater supplies. These actions help protect communities from the persistent dangers associated with PFAS. They’re responsive to the pressing needs of communities most burdened by contamination.
“There are so many different factors that affect individual health outcomes and also affect what levels you will see in your blood.” – Tasha Stoiber, a senior scientist with the Washington, D.C.-based Environmental Working Group
Despite these initiatives, challenges remain. The ongoing litigation with the Defense Department makes remediation more difficult, as communities fight for accountability for practices that spread environmental contamination in the first place. As the state moves forward, Louisiana is still pushing for the feds to do right by victims and speed up solutions for everyone affected.
Health Implications and Community Awareness
Academics and government researchers have begun to do more research into the health effects of PFAS exposure. Current research has already tied each of these chemicals to multiple health effects—including immune system impairment and increased cholesterol levels. This isn’t exactly breaking news—concern over these possible harms is growing. Community members need to know what chemicals they may be exposed to on a daily basis.
The New Mexico Environment Department serves as a model for transparency and outreach. It provides tools that are empowering residents to better understand their risks and take proactive measures. DCH’s public health campaigns hope to directly educate individuals about how to avoid products containing PFAS and encourage safe drinking water practices.