CDC encouraging doctors to test blood for PFAS – commonly known as forever chemicals

ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) - The CDC has released new guidance for dealing with ‘PFAS’, the potentially cancer-causing chemicals found in many waterways.

“Everyone should see their physician for a yearly checkup. And when they go, they should share any concerns that they have. One could be exposure to these compounds,” explained Dr. Dwight Flammia, public health toxicologist for the Virginia Department of Health.

He says he isn’t quite sure why the CDC is now encouraging doctors to add more testing for ‘PFAS’; however, major exposure is caused by ingestion.

“It’s either by drinking water that may have it in it, or consuming foods,” said Dr. Flammia.

He says even if you do decide to get tested, the guidance on what to do with the results is not clear yet.

“If you do have a level that you’re concerned about, of course monitor what you’re eating, what’s your source of food, where it comes from. And also, [monitor] the water that you’re drinking,” explained Dr. Flammia.

If your drinking water has been exposed, it is recommended to use a filter and drink bottled water.

Experts say even if you do have concerning levels of ‘PFAS’ in your system, it’s possible for it to decrease by half; however, depending on the type of chemical, this could take days to years.

This is why finding out if your source of food and water has high levels of ‘PFAS’ is important, so you can start to reduce your exposure to the chemicals.

“The other one, of course, is reaching out, if you’re on public water, reach out to your public waterworks and see if they’ve had the water tested? And if so, [ask] what are the results?” said Dr. Flammia.

A sewage treatment facility operated by the Western Virginia Water Authority has a permit to release treated water into the Roanoke River, but it’s not required for them to properly monitor for ‘PFAS’. A bill was introduced just Monday afternoon by Delegate Sam Rasoul (D-38) to change this.

We’ll keep you updated on the status of that bill as it moves forward.