PFAS in rainwater: What it means for healthWritten by Corrie Pelc on August 3, 2022 —

PFAS in rainwater: What it means for health

Written by Corrie Pelc on August 3, 2022 — Fact checked by Alexandra Sanfins, Ph.D.

PFAS, which are a type of synthetic chemical, may be present in rainwater at high levels, according to new research. Dang Nguyen/EyeEm/Getty Images

For many years, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — or “forever chemicals” — entered the natural environment, contaminating soil and water sources.

New research from Stockholm University found that the levels of PFAS in rainwater now exceed levels deemed safe by health and environment advisory agencies.

People should be aware of how PFAS may impact their overall health and take precautions to have their drinking water tested as necessary.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — also known as “forever chemicals” — are a known hazard to global human health.

Because these synthetic chemicals pollute the natural environment, including drinking waterTrusted Source, research links PFAS exposure to health issues including liver damageTrusted Source, women’s fertility issuesTrusted Source, gestational diabetes, and certain cancersTrusted Source.

Now, a new study from Stockholm University reports the amount of PFAS in rainwater exceeds the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Lifetime Drinking Water Health Advisory levels. Researchers also found rainwater is often above Environmental Quality Standard for Inland European Union Surface Water.

The new study was recently published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.