What are PFAS?
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of human-made chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1950s. They have properties that resist heat, grease, and water.
PFAS do not occur naturally and are widespread in the environment. They are found in people, wildlife and fish all over the world. Some PFAS can stay in peoples' bodies a long time and do not break down easily in the environment. This is why they are often referred to as “Forever Chemicals”. There are thousands of types of PFAS. The most common types are PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctanoic sulfonic acid). View the Family Tree of PFAS (PDF).
Where are PFAS found?
- Cleaning products.
- Water-resistant fabrics, such as rain jackets, umbrellas and tents.
- Grease-resistant paper.
- Nonstick cookware.
- Personal care products, like shampoo, dental floss, nail polish, and eye makeup.
- Stain-resistant coatings used on carpets, upholstery, and other fabrics.
PFAS Exposure
The main ways people can be exposed to PFAS include:
- Drinking contaminated municipal or private well water.
- Eating fish with high levels of PFAS.
- Eating food grown or raised near places that used or made PFAS.
- Eating food packaged in material made with PFAS.
- Swallowing contaminated soil or dust.
- Using some consumer products, such as ski wax, nonstick cookware, and stain and water repellant sprays for fabrics.
Health Effects
Current scientific research suggests that exposure to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health outcomes. However, research is still ongoing to determine how different levels of exposure to different PFAS can lead to a variety of health effects. Research is also underway to better understand the health effects associated with low levels of exposure to PFAS over long periods of time, especially in children.
For information about our current understanding of the human health and environmental risks of PFAS, visit the US EPA’s PFAS website.
What is Kentucky doing about PFAS?
Kentucky has prioritized the identification of potential human exposures in its PFAS response. The identification of where exposures may be occurring help direct agency action and resources that will better protect human health. Ingestion of drinking water containing PFAS has been identified as one of the ways people can be exposed. Since 2017, the Commonwealth has undertaken multiple investigations to identify PFAS in drinking and source waters in the Commonwealth. More information on those investigations can be found on the Division of Water’s PFAS information page. The cabinet is also providing assistance to systems and communities that have identified PFAS issues as new federal rules have outlined requirements for drinking water systems.