University of Texas at Dallas scientists are working to limit the lifespan of potentially hazardous forever chemicals by developing new technologies to remove them quickly and efficiently from the environment. People can be exposed to the chemicals by consuming water or food containing PFAS or by using products made with them. Research studies suggest associations between PFAS exposure and adverse health outcomes, such as increased cholesterol, impaired immune function and cancer. “PFAS have been dubbed forever chemicals for a reason,” Wriedt said. Further, once those materials are saturated with PFAS, they often end up in a landfill, which creates a new problem.