Drinking water and groundwater sample results are compared to:

Learn more about drinking water PFAS maximum contaminant levels

 The majority of surface water (i.e., waterbody) samples collected are compared to:

Some water supplies draw water from a waterbody, treat the water, and then use it for drinking water.

If surface water samples are collected directly from a waterbody that is also used as a source for drinking water, then surface water samples are compared to:

ppt = parts per trillion

PFAS can get into drinking water when products or wastes containing them are disposed of, used or spilled onto the ground or into lakes and rivers.

PFAS move easily through the ground, getting into groundwater that is used for some water supplies or for private drinking water wells. When released into lakes or rivers used as sources of drinking water, they can get into drinking water supplies.

PFAS released by facilities into the air can also end up in rivers and lakes used for drinking water.

Test results can vary depending on several factors, including:

• the depth of the drinking water wells
• groundwater flow direction, and
• geological characteristics underground

PFAS contamination in groundwater can be found at different depths in the ground depending on the aquifer thickness, type, and whether sand or clay are present.  

Groundwater flows in certain directions and paths, and depending on your home's and drinking water well's location in relation to the PFAS contamination source, your testing results might show different levels of PFAS than your neighbors well.

Research is on-going to understand how PFAS affects health. Reducing exposure to PFAS can help prevent potential health effects from PFAS exposure. Because children are still developing, they may be more sensitive to the harmful effects of chemicals such as PFAS.

Being exposed to PFAS does not guarantee the development of health effects. However, chronic exposure to certain PFAS has been linked to several health effects, including:

• Thyroid disease.
• Liver damage.
• High cholesterol, especially total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.
• Decreased immune system response to vaccines in children.
• Development of certain types of cancer, particularly kidney and testicular cancers.
• Reduced fertility.
• High blood pressure or preeclampsia during pregnancy.
• Small decreases in infant birth weight.

If you have health concerns related to PFAS exposure, talk to your doctor about your concerns. It is always good to have regular check-ups for possible health problems. For more information, visit ATSDR: Talking to Your Health Care Provider about Exposure to PFAS.

MDHHS has started multiple projects to learn more about PFAS exposure in Michigan residents and to learn more about the links between PFAS exposure and health. Call 844-464-7327 or visit Michigan.gov/DEHBio to learn more about these important PFAS research projects.