Am I Doing It Wrong? Here’s What You Need To Know About Forever Chemicals
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Feb 26, 2026 
Tasha Stoiber, senior scientist at the Environmental Working Group who studies contaminants in water and consumer products. She explains what PFAS are and why they persist. She outlines where PFAS show up in everyday items, who is most exposed, and practical ways to reduce contact. She also discusses testing, filtration, and safer product choices.
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Health Links From Large Community Studies
- PFAS exposure has been linked to cancers, high cholesterol, ulcerative colitis and pregnancy‑induced hypertension in large population studies.
- The C8/PFOA contamination study of ~70,000 people near a production facility established several of these links.
Low Levels Still Matter So Check Your Water
- Even low‑level PFAS in drinking water (parts per trillion) are associated with health impacts, notably immune system effects.
- Concern applies broadly: from highly exposed communities to background contamination via wastewater and landfills.
Filter Your Water With The Right System
- To reduce PFAS in tap water, use multi‑stage carbon filters or reverse osmosis; standard Brita pitchers may only reduce some PFAS.
- EWG's Tap Water Database lets you look up PFAS contamination by zip code or utility.