New Study From The University of Birmingham Indicates Over 99% of All Water Bottles Contain ‘Forever Chemicals’ PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl Substances)
MANHATTAN, NEW YORK (October 20, 2024) – According to a new study, scientists have discovered the presence of toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’ in nearly all water bottles.
The study was conducted by the University of Birmingham. Researchers took samples from water bottles all over the world, including Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania.
According to one author of the study, “While current PFAS levels in most water samples are not a major health concern, ongoing monitoring and regulation are crucial to protect public health.”
It remains unclear how individuals may be impacted if their primary source of water is from bottled water. The study authors said that certain measures, including boiling and/or activated carbon filtration, can dramatically reduce the presence of PFAS.
Liability For Illnesses Caused By Forever Chemicals
Long-term exposure to forever chemicals represents a major health risk for the public. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “Exposure to PFAS has been linked to deadly cancers, impacts to the liver and heart, and immune and developmental damage to infants and children.” There are a number of different PFAS that consumers should be aware of.
- Perfluorooctanoic Acid: often used in cookware
- Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid: previously used in firefighting foam
- GenX: used in the product of non-stick materials
- Perfluorononanoic Acid: used in water-resistant products
- Perfluorohexanesulfonic Acid: used in certain industrial processes
Companies that manufacture water bottles and other consumer goods have a legal obligation to ensure that their products are reasonably safe. They must comply with all safety standards and federal regulations. When a company is aware (or should be aware) that the product they are selling is unsafe, they must take action. Failing to take action in such a circumstance could form the basis of a civil claim. It is important that certain steps are taken after developing any illness associated with PFAS.
- Medical records related to the exposure should be preserved.
- The source of the exposure should be understood.
- An experienced personal injury attorney should be contacted.
In many situations, regulations do not take into account emergent science that may point to certain products being dangerous. That’s why it is so common for dangerous chemicals to be used in products for many years before they are finally banned. Any person who sustains an illness associated with forever chemicals may be able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim. A toxic tort attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Getting Legal Help After Forever Chemical Exposure
We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. were deeply concerned to hear about this new study of PFAS in water bottles. It is already well known that many of these chemicals are linked to cancer and other serious ailments. There needs to be additional research done into the presence of these chemicals in other consumer goods.
Have you or someone that you care about been harmed by forever chemicals? You may have legal recourse. Our team of personal injury attorneys is here to help in any way that we can. We care deeply that victims of toxic substances get the support and justice that they are entitled to under the law. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we may be able to help. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
