WCSH-TV6 • February 17, 2023
The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention is reviewing data on PFAS chemicals in fish samples taken from three major rivers in Maine after a national study found levels in freshwater fish are much higher than in commercial fish. Studies have linked exposure to the class of man-made chemicals to increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer, complications during pregnancy, and thyroid problems. Eight waterways are currently flagged with fish consumption advisories for PFAS. Regulators are now looking at the possibility of adding more to that list. Maine's thousands of miles of rivers and streams and hundreds of freshwater lakes are home to a variety of fish. But scientists said just eating one freshwater fish annually could spike toxic chemicals in your bloodstream.