A recent sample from Dupo’s public water system exceeded state and federal limits for so-called “forever chemicals” known as PFAS, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency announced Wednesday.
PFAS is shorthand for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The synthetic chemicals have been used for decades to make products that repel oil and water such as nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, stain resistant furniture, food packaging and cosmetics, and firefighting foams.
They are often referred to as forever chemicals because they break down very slowly and can build up in a person’s body over time. Long-term exposure may increase the risk of certain health problems, such as cancer and fertility and child development issues.
Public water providers are required to regularly test treated and untreated water for PFAS and inform residents when results surpass limits set by the government.
Dupo’s most recent sampling detected one type of PFAS above the limit: perfluorooctanesulfonic acid or PFOS.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says people face health risks from any level of PFOS exposure. Under new EPA regulations, the legal limit for PFOS in drinking water is 4 parts per trillion — a standard based on available water treatment technology and cost considerations. However, the agency’s public health goal is to have no PFOS in drinking water.
The sample from Dupo included 4.5 parts per trillion.
It was unclear from the EPA’s announcement when the sample was collected or whether it came from treated or untreated drinking water.
