What Massachusetts' New PFAS Health Study Means for You in 2026

What is happening with PFAS research in Massachusetts?

Scientists at Silent Spring Institute, a Massachusetts-based research organization, are leading a major study to understand how PFAS chemicals affect residents' health and where these contaminants are showing up in communities. The research, called the Massachusetts PFAS and Your Health Study, combines laboratory testing with community input to identify PFAS sources and health patterns in real neighborhoods.

Dr. Laurel Schaider, a senior scientist at the institute, initially focused on other groundwater contaminants but shifted her attention to PFAS after recognizing how widespread and persistent these chemicals are. The study represents a growing effort to move beyond national-level data and understand PFAS exposure at the local level, where most people actually live.

Who is affected by this research?

Massachusetts residents—particularly those in areas with known or suspected PFAS contamination—are the primary focus. This includes people whose drinking water comes from private wells, municipal water systems, or both. The study also engages communities that may have industrial, military, or firefighting facilities nearby, as these are common sources of PFAS pollution.

Beyond Massachusetts, the study's findings could inform how other states approach PFAS testing and health monitoring. Researchers are working directly with residents to understand their concerns and incorporate local knowledge into the scientific process.

Why does this matter for your health?

PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in non-stick coatings, waterproof fabrics, food packaging, and firefighting foams. Once released into the environment, they break down very slowly—earning the nickname "forever chemicals." PFAS have been detected in the blood of most Americans, and some studies have found associations between PFAS exposure and health effects including high cholesterol, liver damage, thyroid disease, and weakened immune response in children.

However, associations between PFAS exposure and health outcomes do not prove that PFAS caused the health condition. More research is needed to understand exactly how exposure levels and timing affect health risks. What we do know is that reducing exposure—especially for pregnant people, infants, and young children—is recommended as a precaution.

Community-based research like Massachusetts' study is important because it helps identify contamination patterns in specific areas before widespread exposure occurs. Early detection allows residents and officials to take action, such as switching to bottled water or installing filters.

What should you do?

If you live in Massachusetts or another area with known PFAS contamination:

• Test your drinking water if you have a private well. Many water testing services can detect PFAS, though costs vary. Contact your state environmental agency for approved testing labs.
• Check whether your municipal water system has published PFAS testing results. Public water utilities must report certain PFAS levels under federal and state rules.
• Consider using a water filter certified to remove PFAS if contamination is detected in your area. Granular activated carbon and reverse osmosis filters can reduce PFAS, but standard pitcher filters typically do not.
• Learn about your community's PFAS sources. Airports, military bases, industrial sites, and fire training facilities are common sources. Local health departments can provide information.

To stay informed:

• Sign up for updates from your state's environmental and health agencies. Many states now have dedicated PFAS information pages.
• If you're interested in participating in research, check whether you qualify for community studies in your area. The Massachusetts PFAS and Your Health Study and similar efforts often seek volunteer participants.
• Use the PFAS Database Finder tool to learn what is known about PFAS contamination near you and what testing options exist in your region.

What makes this study different?

Most PFAS research happens in laboratories or relies on national health surveys. The Massachusetts study combines field testing—actually collecting water and other samples from homes and communities—with direct engagement with residents. This "community science" approach means people affected by PFAS contamination help shape what questions scientists ask and how findings are shared.

The research also focuses on a specific geographic area, making results more directly applicable to people living there, rather than relying only on national averages that may not reflect local conditions.

Bottom Line

A new Massachusetts-based research study is investigating PFAS contamination and health effects in local communities. If you live in an area with known PFAS problems—or want to know whether you do—test your drinking water through an approved lab, check your water utility's test results, and consider filters if contamination is found. Community-based research like this helps identify problems early and gives residents and officials better tools to protect health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are PFAS in my drinking water dangerous?

Some PFAS are associated with health concerns at high exposure levels, but the relationship between PFAS exposure and human health effects is still being studied. The EPA and many states have set safety limits for certain PFAS in drinking water based on available research. The safest approach is to test your water if you're concerned and reduce exposure through filtration if contamination is detected.

Can I remove PFAS from my home's water?

Yes, some water treatment methods work. Granular activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems can reduce PFAS in drinking water. However, standard pitcher filters do not remove PFAS. If you use a private well, work with a water treatment professional to choose the right system for your water's specific contaminants. For more guidance, consult your state health department or visit our methodology page to understand how PFAS testing works.

Should I be worried about PFAS in my blood?

PFAS has been detected in most Americans' blood, but detecting PFAS is not the same as having a health problem. Concentrations vary widely. If you're concerned, discuss your individual risk with a doctor and focus on reducing future exposure by testing your drinking water and using appropriate filters if needed.