Health guide

PFAS and your health

Decades of research — including the landmark C8 study of nearly 70,000 exposed people — link PFAS to a specific set of health effects. Below, each is broken out with what the evidence actually shows. For the full overview, start with how PFAS affects your health.

On our sourcing: health-effect claims on CheckPFAS cite primary sources only — the ATSDR toxicological profile, IARC, the C8 Science Panel, the National Academies (NASEM), and the EPA. This is general information, not medical advice; for personal guidance consult your doctor or public health authority. See our editorial standards.

01By health condition

Cancer Strong

Kidney & testicular cancer; PFOA classified a Group 1 human carcinogen by IARC (2023).

High cholesterol Strong

One of the most consistent findings — elevated total and LDL cholesterol, even at low exposure.

Thyroid disease Moderate–strong

Disrupted thyroid hormones and higher rates of hypothyroidism, especially in women.

Fertility Moderate

Longer time-to-pregnancy in women; reduced sperm quality in men. Affects both partners.

02By life stage

Pregnancy

Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, lower birth weight, and first-trimester thyroid disruption.

Children & schools

Children face higher exposure per body weight; PFAS has been found in school drinking water.

The first step

Know your exposure

The health science is serious but actionable, and it starts with knowing whether PFAS is in your water. Look up your ZIP code to see what EPA UCMR 5 testing found — then, if needed, reduce it with a certified filter.

Check your ZIP code →