Capitol News

A recent study led by researchers from Michigan State University has highlighted the persistent issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in drinking water, particularly focusing on a community near an abandoned paper mill landfill. This investigation marks the first biomonitoring study that evaluates PFAS exposure resulting from contamination linked to a paper mill landfill.

The research, titled “Elevated per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in tap water and serum in a community near an abandoned paper mill,” points out this often-overlooked source of PFAS pollution. The study found elevated levels of these chemicals in both the drinking water and blood of residents, with those consuming more contaminated municipal water showing higher levels.

Assistant Professor Courtney Carignan from MSU’s Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition stated, “We hope this work raises awareness about potential sources and pathways of PFAS in drinking water, which can be an important source of exposure.” She added that while Michigan has tested all public drinking water supplies for PFAS, many states have not conducted as extensive testing.

Chris Higgins, an environmental chemist at the Colorado School of Mines and principal investigator for the project, emphasized the importance of understanding how industries other than fluorochemical manufacturers impact communities. “This study helps fill an important gap in our understanding,” said Higgins.

In southwest Michigan, where contamination was initially identified by the Michigan PFAS Action Response Team in 2018, researchers found elevated PFOA, PFOS, and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) levels. These findings are consistent with previous studies indicating long-term exposure as a predictor for increased serum levels.

The abandoned paper mill had operated from 1909 to 2000, disposing waste containing PFAS into a landfill. Participants were divided based on their exposure to contaminated municipal or private well water. Women showed lower levels compared to men due to biological factors such as menstruation.

Heather Stapleton from Duke University stressed the vulnerability of drinking water systems: “This research highlights how vulnerable our drinking water systems can be to contamination from old paper mills or landfills.” The findings serve as a baseline for future assessments regarding toxicological effects and intervention strategies against PFAS exposure.

Supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Priorities Program, this study underscores ongoing needs for monitoring lesser-known sources of contamination. Researchers call for further biomonitoring efforts to evaluate health risks effectively.