Apple News In Conversation How toxic chemicals quietly took over our lives
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May 15, 2025 
Mariah Blake, an investigative journalist and author of 'They Poisoned the World', dives into the alarming world of PFAS, or forever chemicals, and their pervasive presence in our lives. She reveals their links to serious health issues like cancer and infertility, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and activism. Blake also shares inspiring stories of grassroots movements pushing against these toxic substances and offers practical tips for reducing exposure in our daily lives. A call to action for informed living in a chemically laden world!
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Health Risks of PFAS Exposure
- PFAS exposure, even at low levels, links to cancers, obesity, reduced IQ, immune suppression, and infertility among others.
- The EPA concluded zero safe exposure level exists for the primary PFAS, PFOA and PFOS.
Origin and Concealment of PFAS Harm
- PFAS were developed by the U.S. government during the Manhattan Project for uranium enrichment materials.
- Despite early worker illnesses and environmental damage, toxicity warnings were buried, enabling widespread consumer use after the war.
West Virginia Farmer Lawsuit Impact
- A West Virginia farming family's lawsuit revealed DuPont's PFAS pollution causing tumors and animal deaths.
- A major health study of nearby residents linked PFAS to several diseases and pushed for regulation.
