WASHINGTON (TNND) — More than 37 million Americans are consuming drinking water contaminated with toxic "forever chemicals" that exceed federal safety limits, according to a recent USA Today report. The report analyzed the first Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) update since President Donald Trump returned to office.

"Forever chemicals," or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are chemicals that do not break down easily and are linked to cancer and other health risks. These substances are found in everyday items such as non-stick cookware, food packaging, firefighting foams, and water-resistant clothing. As these products degrade, the chemicals leach into the soil and water, eventually entering the human bloodstream.

USA Today uncovered that 667 water systems have already surpassed the PFAS limits proposed by the EPA just a year ago. Under current regulations, utilities must address these violations by 2029. The EPA estimated last year that the PFAS limits could affect up to 6,000 water systems and protect about 100 million Americans who rely on those utilities for drinking water. However, advocates are concerned that these rules could be weakened, overturned, or face legal challenges.

Research from the National Cancer Institute found a strong link between PFAS and kidney and testicular cancer. There is also growing evidence suggesting connections to prostate, thyroid, breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers. The level of risk can depend on the type of PFAS and the extent of exposure.

Research published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology estimated that PFAS contamination in drinking water could cause around 4,600 to 6,800 cancer cases every year in the U.S.

To avoid exposure to these chemicals, the Natural Resources Defense Council recommends using water filters certified to reduce PFAS levels, avoiding nonstick cookware that contains PFAS, limiting exposure to fast food packaging, and checking labels on personal care products to avoid those with ingredients linked to these chemicals.