Public Health
PFAS - Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals found in many products, such as clothing, carpets, fabrics for furniture, adhesives, paper packaging for food, and heat-resistant/non-stick cookware. They are also present in fire-fighting foams (or aqueous film forming foam; AFFF) used by both civilian and military firefighters. Also known as the "forever chemicals", PFAS are persistent (i.e., they do not break down) in the environment, and since they are used in the manufacturing of so many products, they are widespread internationally.
Exposure to PFAS during military service
In the 1970s, the Department of Defense began using AFFF to fight fuel fires. The release of these chemicals into the environment during training and emergency responses is a major source of PFAS contamination of ground water on military bases.
Concerns have recently been raised from communities surrounding bases about whether PFAS-contaminated ground water on military bases may be affecting off-base water supplies. The Department of Defense (DOD) conducted an investigation into the extent of PFAS contamination on its bases and identified 723 installations where PFAS may have been used or released. These bases are currently undergoing cleanup, and PFAS-containing AFFF is no longer used for training. DOD plans to completely phase out the use of these foams by October 2025.
Read more about DoD efforts.
Exposure to PFAS in drinking water
In April 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), set the first national drinking water limits for five specific PFAS compounds, PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA (GenX chemicals), and also for mixtures of two or more of four PFAS, including PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS, and GenX. Public water systems, including those serving military installations, must test for these chemicals and, where levels exceed the new standards, take necessary action to reduce PFAS concentrations. EPA also added PFOA and PFOS to the list of hazardous substances under the Superfund law (CERCLA). This means that large spills or releases must now be reported, and cleanup can be required at contaminated sites.
In May 2025, EPA announced that it will keep the current drinking water standards for PFOA and PFOS but will give water systems more time—until 2031—to meet the requirements. EPA is also reviewing whether the April 2024 standards for the other PFAS need to be reconsidered. A proposed update to the rule is expected in late 2025. Read more about EPA’s efforts.
Testing for PFAS
Some Veterans may want blood testing to find out their PFAS level. Although PFAS testing is not currently available at VA medical centers, VA is reevaluating blood testing in accordance with new Federal research.
There are benefits and limitations to finding out your PFAS level. Knowing your PFAS blood level can give you peace of mind if your exposure level is normal. Also, it can also help you in planning how to reduce your exposure in the future. However, finding out your blood level will not tell you if you were exposed to PFAS recently or in the past. In addition, testing does not identify the source of your PFAS exposure. Knowing your blood level will not tell you whether PFAS has or will cause illness.
Talk to your health care provider to determine if getting a PFAS blood test is the right decision for you.
Health problems that may be associated with PFAS
PFAS can be found throughout the world and most people have been exposed at low levels. According to the EPA, PFAS can be detected in the blood of most people. The likelihood of health problems from PFAS depends on several factors, including the concentration, frequency, and duration of exposure. More research is needed to understand the link between exposure to PFAS and health effects in humans.
According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ASTDR), part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some studies in humans suggest that certain PFAS may be associated with:
- Fertility issues and pregnancy-induced hypertension/preeclampsia
- Increased cholesterol
- Changes in the immune system
- Increased risk of certain cancers (e.g., testicular and kidney cancer)
- Changes in fetal and child development
- Liver damage
- Increased risk of thyroid disease
- Increased risk of asthma
Although some studies have reported these possible health outcomes, the overall scientific and medical evidence is currently inconclusive.
Federal research and investigations
Multiple federal agencies are evaluating the health effects linked to PFAS exposure:
- VA is reviewing the scientific evidence to see if there may be a link between PFAS exposure during military service and kidney cancer. This review is part of a formal process for establishing presumptive service-connection required under the PACT Act. Learn more here.
- ATSDR is leading a multi-site health study on people who drank PFAS contaminated water at several locations, including former military bases. Learn more about ATSDR's work on PFAS.
- The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is studying PFAS exposure and health effects in firefighters and other occupations with potentially high exposures. Learn more about NIOSH research here.
- The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is conducting studies to learn more about the extent of PFAS exposures in communities, how PFAS moves through the environment, and the impact of exposures on the body. Find out more on the NIEHS website.
Health concerns?
If you are concerned about health problems associated with exposure to PFAS during your military service, talk to your health care provider or local VA Environmental Health Coordinator.
Compensation benefits for health problems
Currently, there are no presumptions related to PFAS exposure in the military. However, Veterans may file a claim for disability compensation for health problems they believe are related to exposure to chemicals during military service. VA decides these claims on a case-by-case basis. File a claim online.
Learn more about VA benefits.
Resources
- Perfluoroalkyls - ToxFAQs (CDC)
- PFOS and PFOA in Drinking Water (Army)
- PFAS Factsheet for Clinicians
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