PFAS Water Contamination at Aqua PA in Hatboro

PFAS Contamination in Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro: What You Need to Know

Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro, a key water provider in Pennsylvania, has detected concerning levels of PFAS chemicals in its water supply. Testing conducted on October 16, 2024, revealed PFOS at 4.6 parts per trillion (ppt) and PFOA at 6.0 ppt. These levels exceed the EPA’s Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) of 4.0 ppt for both PFOS and PFOA, as finalized in April 2024 but not enforceable until 2029. As a water provider, Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro is responsible for ensuring safe drinking water for its customers.

As personal injury lawyers, we are alarmed by the health risks posed by this PFAS contamination. PFOS and PFOA, part of the PFAS chemical family, are linked to serious health issues, including cancer, immune system dysfunction, and developmental problems. The detected levels exceed EPA safety thresholds, raising significant concerns for the well-being of Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro residents. We are dedicated to helping affected individuals understand their legal options and pursue justice.

The detection of PFAS contamination, with PFOS and PFOA levels above EPA limits, is deeply concerning and demands immediate action. We urge Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro to be transparent about their findings and take swift measures to address this issue. Overwhelming evidence links PFAS to serious health conditions, such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and ulcerative colitis.

To verify this data, visit the EPA’s UCMR 5 Data Finder and search for Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro. Data is updated quarterly.

Data Methodology Disclosure

To ensure transparency, we provide details on the sourcing of the data referenced on this page. The information is derived from the following authoritative report:

• EPA’s UCMR5 Testing Program: The Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5), managed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), collects nationwide data on unregulated contaminants, including PFAS, to inform future regulations. Explore the UCMR5 Data.

This EPA data underpins the claims regarding water quality and testing results presented here. We encourage readers to review these reports for a comprehensive understanding of the data.

What is PFAS and How Does It Affect Health?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals used in products like firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, and water-repellent fabrics. Known as “forever chemicals,” they persist in the environment and human body, leading to bioaccumulation in organs such as the kidneys and liver. The CDC notes that most U.S. residents have PFAS in their blood, primarily from contaminated water, food, and air. In Pennsylvania, where water contamination is a growing concern, understanding these health impacts is critical.

Linda Birnbaum, former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, has stated, The data linking PFAS to cancer is very clear. This highlights the urgency of addressing PFAS exposure, particularly in communities near industrial or military sites where contamination is prevalent.

Health Risks and Protective Steps

PFOS and PFOA are classified as probable human carcinogens by the EPA [1]. Research links prolonged exposure to kidney cancer [2], testicular cancer [2], ulcerative colitis [3], liver damage [1], and immune system dysfunction [3]. The levels detected in Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro’s water supply—PFOS at 4.6 ppt and PFOA at 6.0 ppt on October 16, 2024—exceed the EPA’s MCLs of 4.0 ppt [4].

Residents should demand transparency from Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro and access water quality reports through official channels. Those with private wells should seek PFAS testing via local health departments or the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, as unregulated sources are at higher risk in this region.

References:

• [1] EPA. (2024, November 25). Our Current Understanding of the Human Health and Environmental Risks of PFAS. https://www.epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas
• [2] National Cancer Institute. (2020, September 23). PFAS and Cancer. https://dceg.cancer.gov/research/what-we-study/pfas
• [3] CDC/ATSDR. (2022, September 21). PFAS Health Effects. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/index.html
• [4] EPA. (2023). Drinking Water Regulations for PFAS. https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas

PFAS’s Connection to Cancer

Research has established a clear link between PFAS exposure and an increased risk of cancers, including testicular, kidney, liver, and thyroid cancers, as well as other serious health conditions like ulcerative colitis.

PFAS and Testicular Cancer

Studies show that PFAS, particularly PFOS and PFOA, can accumulate in the body and disrupt hormonal balance, potentially leading to testicular cancer. The detection of these chemicals in Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro’s water supply heightens the risk for residents.

PFAS and Ulcerative Colitis

Evidence suggests a strong connection between PFAS exposure and ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. The PFOS and PFOA contamination in Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro’s water supply raises concerns about residents developing this debilitating condition.

PFAS and Kidney Cancer

PFAS exposure is linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer due to the chemicals’ accumulation in the body. The contamination in Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro’s water system underscores the urgent need to address this public health threat.

PFAS and Liver Cancer

Research indicates that PFAS can cause liver damage and increase the risk of liver cancer. The elevated PFOS and PFOA levels in Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro’s water supply highlight the need for immediate action to protect residents.

PFAS and Thyroid Diseases

PFAS exposure is associated with thyroid dysfunction, including hypothyroidism and autoimmune thyroiditis. The contamination in Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro’s water system poses a significant risk to residents’ thyroid health.

Stay Informed With Us

We will keep you updated on Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro’s water contamination through our Facebook group and direct outreach. PFOS and PFOA have been detected in the water system, and we are committed to ensuring residents remain informed about this critical issue.

If you have concerns about your water quality or believe you may have been affected by PFAS contamination, please contact us directly. We are here to help you navigate this challenging situation and protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Potential Health Effects of PFOS and PFOA Exposure?

PFOS and PFOA exposure is linked to increased risks of cancers, developmental issues, hormonal disruptions, and immune system dysfunction. Ongoing research continues to clarify the full scope of these impacts.

How Long Has the Water Contamination Been Present in Hatboro?

The exact duration of PFOS and PFOA contamination in Aqua Pennsylvania Hatboro’s water is unknown. The detection data comes from a sample collected on October 16, 2024, but the issue may have existed earlier.

What Steps Can Residents Take to Protect Themselves From PFAS Exposure?

Residents can use certified water filters, avoid PFAS-containing products, and advocate for stricter regulations. Staying informed about local contamination levels and taking proactive steps are essential.

Marin & Murphy Law Firm is not currently accepting new PFAS claims. This page is general information about water quality and public health, not legal advice, and reading it or contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. The firm is licensed in South Carolina, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut; its PFAS matters are handled with co-counsel who maintain local counsel arrangements nationwide. Matthew T. Marin, SC Bar #102771, 997 Morrison Drive, Suite 200, Charleston, SC 29403.