Study Links PFAS-Contaminated Water to Severe Infant Health Risks

A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has found that infants born to New Hampshire mothers exposed to PFAS-contaminated drinking water face substantially higher risks of serious health outcomes, including death. The research showed that mothers whose water sources flowed through PFAS-contaminated sites had a 191% higher risk of infant mortality within the first year of life compared with unexposed mothers.

PFAS exposure was also associated with a 168% increased likelihood of extremely preterm birth, before 28 weeks of gestation, and a 180% higher risk of extremely low birth weight, defined as less than 2.2 pounds. The study further linked PFAS exposure to a higher risk of repeated miscarriage.

Based on these findings, the authors estimate that PFAS-related impacts on infant health cost the United States around $8bn annually. Given that nearly all Americans have detectable PFAS in their blood, largely through drinking water and diet, the study highlights an urgent need for stronger policies to protect pregnant women and newborns from these chemicals.

22-12-2025