Dozens of Drinking Water Systems Show Contamination From PFAS or 'Forever Chemicals'

Dozens of water systems around IL have been tested to try and look for measurable levels of harmful contaminants known as "forever chemicals" and in most cases the levels found have been of little concern. However, the widespread presence of those chemicals is a concern, according to health and environmental advocates. These chemicals have been linked to cancer, liver damage, and other issues.

"These findings confirm our fears that drinking water is a source of PFAS exposure for thousands of Illinois residents,... The state needs to urgently address these harmful exposures." - S. Lunder, Sierra Club toxics expert."

Can't Point To Contamination Source

Locals have suggested that they cannot point to the direct source of where the contamination is coming from and entering the water systems.

Considering that PFAS have the potential to cause some serious potential health issues it is concerning that they would be this widespread in communities around the United States today in drinking water sources, especially if experts don't know where it is coming from. This isn't new though as they have been found for years in one place or another around the U.S.

Not only are people in IL concerned about PFAS but there are also issues with lead service lines in some areas that are also expected to be replaced. It's estimated that there are more than 1 million lead service lines in Illinois. Safe drinking water in a number of communities around the U.S. today is no guarantee.

According to a Chicago Tribune analysis, more than 8 of every 10 Illinoisans live in a community where lead was found in the tap water of at least one home during the past 6 years

Lead exposure can contribute to a variety of potentially harmful life-changing consequences. And still there are many people who might be getting an unexpected amount of lead-contamination in their water who are living in those communities who are unware of it.