PFAS are man-made chemicals used in products worldwide since the mid 50s. These products include firefighting foam, non-stick cookware and water-repellent fabrics. Aerospace, aviation, electronics and automotive industries employed these chemicals for a wide range of applications as well. New Hampshire hosts a number of these types of companies, particularly in mid-central and southern New Hampshire.
Scientific studies show that exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse health outcomes in humans. When humans and animals ingest PFAS through their water, the chemicals are absorbed and can accumulate in the body and remain there for a long time. If the level of PFAS in the body increases to a certain level, negative health outcomes may result.