The crisis surrounding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) does not stop at the fence line around military bases.
These harmful chemicals have also found their way into homes near contaminated military bases, and residents may also be eligible to seek compensation for the harm caused by these 'forever chemicals.'
PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals known for their strong carbon-fluorine bond, enabling them to resist oil, water, and stains. Because of these characteristics, they became useful in industries as well as in consumer goods, such as non-stick pans. On military bases, they are commonly found in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), a type of firefighting foam that the military used extensively for emergencies and training exercises.
Communities, particularly those living near contaminated military sites, can also be exposed to PFAS in various ways, but mostly through drinking contaminated water. Because PFAS are known to persist, even small amounts absorbed in the body can accumulate over time and pose serious health risks. This is why it is important to know if you have lived near a contaminated site, and whether you may be eligible for compensation due to long-term exposure. Those affected may include:
Non-profit group Environmental Working Group (EWG) has already identified at least 720 military bases across the country with known PFAS contamination, with further laboratory and water sample tests revealing that the runoff PFAS chemicals from 601 of these sites have already infiltrated nearby sources of drinking water.
Unlike other substances, PFAS do not biodegrade and tend to accumulate in the human body over time, ultimately leading to serious health conditions. There has been evidence showing a link between exposure to PFAS and the following:
In 2025, researchers also found out that communities that consume PFAS-tainted drinking water are 33% more likely to develop cancers that affect the digestive, endocrine, and respiratory systems. Even the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stressed how harmful these "forever chemicals" can be by reporting that there is 'no safe level of exposure' to PFAS in drinking water.
When filing for toxic exposure claims like those that involve PFAS, the first step often consists of determining your eligibility. If you want to learn more about the process, you have come to the right place.
Here at Atraxia Law, our team of experts can evaluate your case, and if you qualify, we can help you get in touch with a PFAS attorney who can provide you with the legal support you need.