Health officials issue urgent warning after testing fish from popular river: 'It is important to take steps to lower our exposure'
As reported by GoLocalProv, recent samples found elevated levels of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, in fish caught in certain parts of the Pawcatuck River. PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals commonly found in everything from nonstick cookware to waterproof clothing. They're often called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment.
"Fishing is a valued tradition in Rhode Island, and fish are a good source of protein and nutrients. However, fish in some areas can have high levels of pollutants that can harm our health," said Director of Health Jerome Larkin. "While we are still learning about the sources and effects of PFAS, it is important to take steps to lower our exposure to these chemicals."
PFAS contamination is a threat to human health and food security. Eating contaminated fish is one of the main ways these chemicals can build up in our bodies and cause health problems, including higher risks of cancer, liver damage, and other illnesses. Plus, the damage can be passed on during pregnancy. Studies show prenatal exposure can harm fetal immune system development, making exposed kids more likely to get sick throughout childhood.
Communities that rely on fishing for food, business, or cultural traditions are especially vulnerable. And with PFAS showing up in water systems nationwide, contamination could have major long-term impacts on public health and local economies.
Locally, Rhode Island health officials have posted signs in the area and told the public to avoid eating fish from affected waters. While officials said they didn't have enough data on how stocked trout had been affected, they are changing the stocking schedule to hopefully prevent PFAS buildup in the stocked trout population and working to get better data.
Around the world, many governments have set stricter regulations for PFAS in drinking water and are funding efforts to clean up polluted water sources. Scientists have also been working on innovative ways to break down PFAS in drinking water.
Individuals can help prevent PFAS pollution by choosing cookware free of PFAS when possible, including nonstick alternatives such as cast iron, and by supporting clean water initiatives that prioritize pollution prevention.
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USA Today
17 hours ago
- USA Today
New EPA data show more towns have PFAS in their water. Is yours one?
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Yahoo
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Scientists Find Common Kitchen Appliance May Increase Your Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." A new study explores the connection between exposure to 'forever chemicals' and type 2 diabetes. The man-made chemicals are already scientifically tied to cancer, thyroid disease, brain cell death, and more. Experts explain the findings and how to limit your exposure. Forever chemicals—also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAs, that don't break down, but linger in the environment and our bodies—have been linked to brain cell death, cancer, obesity, infertility, thyroid disease, and more. A new study adds type 2 diabetes to that condition list. Meet the Experts: Don Thushara Galbadage, Ph.D., M.P.H., an associate professor of public health at Texas Christian University; and Grant Fowler, M.D., chair of family medicine at the Anne Burnett Marion School of Medicine at Texas Christian University. 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'Any exercise is helpful,' he adds. 'It immediately lowers insulin resistance in your muscles, which helps you use less insulin and preserves your ability to produce insulin. If you are prediabetic, which can be determined by seeing your primary care provider and certain blood tests, medications can be added to your regimen of exercise and diet.' Galbadage concurs with those recommendations, and adds one: Eat a fiber-rich diet, as emerging research suggests that gel-forming fibers like oat β-glucan may help reduce blood levels of certain PFAS. Ultimately, this research 'emphasizes that diabetes prevention is not just personal—it needs to involve both health policy and environmental action,' concludes Galbadage. 'Communities with high PFAS exposure, often low-income or socioeconomically marginalized, face an unfair health burden,' he says. 'We need stronger regulations, corporate accountability, and environmental cleanup efforts. 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