PFAS Water Contamination at the Old North Utilities Services/Fort Bragg

PFAS Contamination in Old North Utilities Services/Fort Bragg: What You Need to Know

Old North Utilities Services/Fort Bragg, a North Carolina water provider, has detected concerning levels of PFAS chemicals in its water supply. According to recent testing, samples collected on December 9, 2024, from the entry point to the district system revealed PFOS at 13.1 ppt and PFOA at 8.7 ppt. These levels exceed the EPA’s Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) of 4 ppt for both PFOS and PFOA, as finalized in April 2024 but not enforceable until 2029. As a water provider, Old North Utilities Services/Fort Bragg is responsible for ensuring safe drinking water for its customers.

As personal injury lawyers, we’re deeply concerned about the potential health risks posed by this PFAS contamination in Old North Utilities Services/Fort Bragg’s water supply. PFOS and PFOA are part of the PFAS family of chemicals, which have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, immune system dysfunction, and developmental problems. The detected levels exceed the safe limits set by health authorities, raising serious concerns for the well-being of Old North Utilities Services/Fort Bragg’s residents. We’re committed to helping affected individuals understand their legal options and seek justice.

The detection of PFAS water contamination, with PFOS and PFOA levels exceeding EPA limits, is deeply concerning and requires immediate action. We urge Old North Utilities Services/Fort Bragg to be transparent about their findings and take swift measures to address this serious issue. There is overwhelming evidence showing how PFAS is cancer-causing, such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and ulcerative colitis.

To verify this data, visit the EPA’s UCMR 5 Data Finder and search for Old North Utilities Services/Fort Bragg. Data is updated quarterly.

Data Methodology Disclosure

To ensure transparency regarding the “recent research and testing data” mentioned on this page, we are providing details on how this information was obtained. The data is sourced from the following authoritative reports:

• EPA’s UCMR5 Testing Program: The Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5), administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), collects nationwide data on unregulated contaminants in drinking water, including PFAS, to support future regulatory efforts. Explore the UCMR5 Data

The information from the EPA form the basis for the claims made about water quality and testing results on this page. We invite readers to explore these reports for a comprehensive view of the data and its significance.

What is PFAS and How Does It Affect Health?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are man-made chemicals found in products like firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, and water-repellent fabrics. Known as “forever chemicals,” they resist breaking down in the environment and the human body. This leads to bioaccumulation, where PFAS builds up over time in organs like the kidneys and liver. The CDC states that most people in the U.S. have PFAS in their blood, primarily from contaminated drinking water, food, and air. In North Carolina, where water contamination is a growing concern, understanding these health impacts is vital.

Linda Birnbaum, former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the National Toxicology Program, has said, The data linking PFAS to cancer is very clear. This underscores the urgency of addressing PFAS exposure, especially in communities near industrial sites or military bases where contamination is more common.

Health Risks and Protective Steps

PFOS and PFOA, part of the PFAS family, are recognized as probable human carcinogens by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) [1]. Extensive 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 Old North Utilities Services/Fort Bragg’s water supply—PFOS at 13.1 ppt and PFOA at 8.7 ppt from the entry point to the district system on December 9, 2024—exceed the EPA’s Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) of 4.0 ppt for both PFOS and PFOA [4].

Residents must demand full disclosure from Old North Utilities Services/Fort Bragg and access water quality reports via their official channels. Those with private wells should pursue PFAS testing through local health departments or the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, as unregulated sources face heightened contamination risks 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

Let’s talk about the link between PFAS contamination and various types of cancer. Studies have shown a potential connection between PFAS exposure and testicular cancer, ulcerative colitis, kidney cancer, liver cancer, and thyroid diseases.

Understanding these risks is crucial for individuals affected by PFAS water contamination to prioritize their health and seek appropriate medical attention.

PFAS and Testicular Cancer

Exploring the connection between PFAS exposure and an increased risk of testicular cancer reveals concerning implications for public health. Studies have indicated a potential link between PFAS, such as PFOS and PFOA found in water contamination like that in North Carolina and the development of testicular cancer. This correlation raises alarms for individuals exposed to these harmful chemicals, highlighting the need for further research and preventative measures.

As personal injury lawyers focusing on public health, we recognize the importance of raising awareness about the risks associated with PFAS exposure and its potential impact on the prevalence of testicular cancer.

PFAS and Ulcerative Colitis

How Can PFAS Contamination Affect My Health?

PFAS contamination can impact health by causing various issues, such as thyroid disorders, immune system problems, and even certain cancers. It’s crucial to stay informed about potential risks and seek guidance from healthcare professionals.

What Are the Potential Sources of PFAS Contamination?

Potential sources of PFAS contamination include industrial sites, military bases, firefighting facilities, and landfills. These chemicals can enter water systems through runoff, spills, or improper disposal, posing health risks to communities exposed to contaminated water sources.

Is There a Known Treatment for PFAS in Drinking Water?

Yes, there are known treatments for PFAS in drinking water. Activated carbon filtration, ion exchange, and reverse osmosis are effective methods. Stay informed with us for updates on PFAS contamination and water treatment solutions.

How Can I Protect My Family From PFAS Exposure?

We can protect our families from PFAS exposure by using water filters certified to remove PFOS and PFOA, avoiding products with PFAS, and staying informed about contamination in our area through regular water quality testing.

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.