Harmful PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), encompassing around 4,700 types of organic fluorine compounds, have been detected in rivers and wells across the country, with PFOS (Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) and PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) being the most notable. These substances, used in non-stick cookware and firefighting foam, are resistant to water, oil, and heat, and are virtually indestructible in nature. Once absorbed into the human body, they remain for a long time, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” Their manufacture and use are now largely banned. In the Tama region and other areas, groundwater has been found to contain levels of the … Continue reading PFAS Leak at U.S. Bases Sparks Health Fears in Japan, Calls for Accountability Arise