PFAS — short for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances — are toxic, man-made chemicals that do not break down in the environment. They are often called “forever chemicals” because once they enter our bodies, they stay there forever.
PFAS exposure has been linked in human studies to increased risks of kidney and testicular cancers, changes in liver function, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, pregnancy complications (including gestational hypertension and preeclampsia), lower birth weight, and impacts on the immune system such as reduced vaccine antibody response.
Because many PFAS persist and can build up in the body, even small, repeated exposures over time can matter.
What’s the PFAS situation in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, PFAS contamination is most severe near military bases where firefighting foams were used for decades, including at Cannon Air Force Base in Curry County and Holloman Air Force Base in Otero County.
These sites have created groundwater plumes that threaten drinking water supplies, agriculture, and wildlife. In Curry County, more than 3,500 dairy cows had to be euthanized after drinking contaminated water, and blood testing shows that 99.7% of nearby residents tested, have PFAS in their bodies.
What is the State is doing to combat PFAS contamination?
The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) and the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) are working aggressively to protect residents and hold polluters accountable.
The State has launched a free blood testing, provided water filters to impacted households, and created an Emerging Contaminants Program to help water systems comply with new EPA drinking water standards.
NMED has filed a lawsuit against the Department of Defense to force cleanup at Cannon AFB and Holloman AFB. NMED also worked with lawmakers to pass legislation that classifies PFAS-laden firefighting foams as a hazardous waste and strengthens protections under the PFAS Protection Act. These combined efforts mark one of the strongest statewide responses to PFAS contamination in the nation.
How do I protect myself from PFAS in New Mexico?
If you do not live near a known contaminated site:
- Choose PFAS-free products. PFAS are used in many consumer products like cookware, clothing and food packaging. Limiting exposure at home can reduce your risk.
PFAS Central and the Ecology Center provide free guides for PFAS-free purchasing, offering plenty of brands sold in New Mexico: - Check your water. If you are on a private well, consider periodic water testing.
If you do live near a contaminated site
- Still choose PFAS-free products.
- Test your water. If you are on a private well, get your water tested at a certified lab. If you are on public water, check system reports for PFAS results.
- Install a home filtration system. Such systems can reduce PFAS exposure. The Environmental Protection Agency has more information on how to select the right one for your home.
- Have your blood tested for PFAS levels. While NMED previously offered free testing near Cannon Air Force Base, the program has been paused for now. However, ask your physician about being tested for PFAS.