Number of water sample sites with PFAS detections in the U.S. 2022, by state

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) compounds have been detected in surface water across the United States. In 2022, PFAS compounds were detected in surface waters at 20 sampling sites in Maryland. PFAS were detected at 18 sites in both Georgia and North Carolina during the study. PFAS are a class of thousands of highly toxic chemicals that are often used to make water, stain, and heat resistant products. They are known as forever chemicals because they do not break down naturally and are linked to a number of health problems, such as cancer, liver problems, and kidney disease. It is believed that millions of people across the U.S. are exposed to PFAS through drinking water.