2 minute read
Residents of the Kansas City area should be aware of growing concerns surrounding PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), often called “forever chemicals.” These toxic substances have been linked to serious health issues including cancers, liver damage, immune suppression, and developmental problems in children. Due to their persistence in the environment and the human body, PFAS pose significant long-term risks and residents of Kansas City should remain aware of concerns.
PFAS in Kansas City
Kansas City has faced PFAS contamination primarily from historical use of firefighting foam containing PFAS at Kansas City International Airport and other industrial sites . These substances can seep into groundwater and nearby water supplies, raising long-term health concerns for residents. The city began voluntary PFAS testing in 2022, with results so far showing levels below federal health limits .
In 2024, Kansas City filed a lawsuit against major chemical manufacturers to hold them accountable and secure funding for cleanup efforts related to PFAS contamination in local water sources .
Federal and state regulations are evolving: the EPA finalized enforceable drinking water standards for six PFAS compounds in April 2024, requiring utilities to reduce levels within three years . Meanwhile, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources has been testing public water systems for PFAS since 2013 and actively mapping contamination sites across the state .
Signature Injury with PFAS Exposure
The most serious signature injuries associated with PFAS exposure are kidney and testicular cancer . However, other lawsuits have cited additional conditions such as liver cancer, thyroid cancer, and ulcerative colitis .
Contact Us
If you or a loved one resides or works in an area where elevated PFAS contamination has been confirmed, and has suffered from illness or health issues, Contact the Michael Brady Lynch Firm at 888-585-5970 today.
Date: July 20, 2025
Attorney and Editor-In-Chief: Brandon Salter
Editors: Madison Hurley
Citations:
https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
https://tkmagazine.com/blog/2024/12/26/who-is-really-responsible-for-kansas-citys-pfas-crisis
https://www.kcwater.us/water-quality/pfas-in-kansas-city/
https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/law/pfas-litigation
https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
https://dnr.mo.gov/contaminant-spotlight/perfluoroalkyl-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
https://modnr.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=386c71927569476ebd2d0e6910424d17
https://www.epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas
https://www.drugwatch.com/legal/pfas-water-contamination-lawsuit/