Forever chemicals and their impact on health and the environment

Forever chemicals, a class of industrial chemicals used in consumer products and military applications since the 1940s, have been a growing concern. These chemicals, known as forever chemicals due to their inability to break down in the environment, are now accumulating in water supplies and in the human body, leading to negative health effects. Studies have shown an increased incidence of cancers, complications in pregnancy and childbirth, reduced immune response and response to vaccines, elevated cholesterol, altered liver function, and potential effects on hormones and reproductive health. The manufacturers of these chemicals have been slow to address the hazards, and almost 50% of drinking water in the United States has been contaminated by these forever chemicals. Phasing out these chemicals and cleaning up contaminated areas are necessary steps to protect human health and the environment.