spectrumlocalnews.com
Illinois EPA suggests filtering water in Wood River
ILLINOIS—The state’s Environment Protection Agency (EPA) says the water in Wood River tested for elevated amounts of an artificial acidic compound. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) compound and is known to increase health risks. Exposure does not guarantee health problems. 6.7 parts-per-trillion (PPT) of PFOS/PFAS was detected in the Wood River Community Water System, which is 2.7 PPT over the groundwater quality standard of 4.0 PPT. Those that receive water from the North East Central Water District in Madison County, Ill., are also impacted. Health risks Fertility problems and high blood pressure during pregnancy Developmental impacts in children Certain cancers, including kidney, prostate, and testicular A weakened immune system Disruption to key hormonal systems, such as thyroid function, reproductive hormones, stress response and metabolic regulation PFAS, the “forever chemicals,” has been used since the 1940s in cookware, packaging, waterproof clothing, firefighting foam and more. It repels oil and water and resists heat. With PFAS being heavily utilized, filtering your water can help reduce PFAS consumption. “Since 2020, Illinois EPA has been proactive in identifying the prevalence of PFAS in drinking water, including supporting adoption of new groundwater standards and state drinking water standards for PFAS chemicals,” said...