Uncovering hidden chemicals
Leah Burrows
Editor s note: Reprinted with permission from the Harvard Gazzette. T
he Harvard scientists in this study are part of the STEEP Superfund Research Program Center, a partnership between the University of Rhode Island, Harvard, and the Silent Spring Institute, working closely with the Town of Barnstable and the Barnstable Clean Water Coalition.
Researchers from the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) have found large quantities of previously undetectable compounds from the family of chemicals known as PFAS in six watersheds on Cape Cod using a new method to quantify and identify PFAS compounds. Exposures to some PFAS, widely used for their ability to repel heat, water, and oil, are linked to a range of health risks including cancer, immune suppression, diabetes, and low infant birth weight.
Uncovering Hidden Forever Chemicals
New tool finds and fingerprints previously undetected PFAS compounds in watersheds on Cape Cod
Researchers from the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) found large quantities of previously undetectable compounds from the family of chemicals known as PFAS in six watersheds on Cape Cod using a new method to quantify and identify PFAS compounds. Exposures to some PFAS, widely used for their ability to repel heat, water, and oil, are linked to a range of health risks including cancer, immune suppression, diabetes, and low infant birth weight.
The new testing method revealed large quantities of previously undetected PFAS from fire-retardant foams and other unknown sources. Total concentrations of PFAS present in these watersheds were above state maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for drinking water safety.
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Researchers from the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) found large quantities of previously undetectable compounds from the family of chemicals known as PFAS in six watersheds on Cape Cod using a new method to quantify and identify PFAS compounds. Exposures to some PFAS, widely used for their ability to repel heat, water, and oil, are linked to a range of health risks including cancer, immune suppression, diabetes, and low infant birth weight.
The new testing method revealed large quantities of previously undetected PFAS from fire-retardant foams and other unknown sources. Total concentrations of PFAS present in these watersheds were above state maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for drinking water safety.
Harvard researchers have discovered large quantities of previously undetected chemical compounds known as PFAS in six watersheds on Cape Cod. Chronic exposure to the so-called “forever chemicals” which can be found in water-resistant clothing, stain-resistant furniture, and nonstick cookware has been linked to cancer, diabetes, and low infant birth weight.