PFAS Exposure, Mental Health, and Environmental Justice in the United States: Impacts on Marginalized Communities

Shiryn D. Sukhram (), Ji Kim (), Sabrina Musovic, Ayotunde Anidugbe, Emiliano Corte, Tasneem Ahsan, Selvia Rofail, Nicolli Mesquita and Miguel Padilla
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Shiryn D. Sukhram: Department of Biology, College of Staten Island, New York, NY 10314, USA
Ji Kim: Department of Science and Mathematics, Guttman Community College, New York, NY 10018, USA
Sabrina Musovic: Department of Biology, College of Staten Island, New York, NY 10314, USA
Ayotunde Anidugbe: Department of Biology, College of Staten Island, New York, NY 10314, USA
Emiliano Corte: Department of Science and Mathematics, Guttman Community College, New York, NY 10018, USA
Tasneem Ahsan: Department of Biology, College of Staten Island, New York, NY 10314, USA
Selvia Rofail: Department of Biology, College of Staten Island, New York, NY 10314, USA
Nicolli Mesquita: Department of Science and Mathematics, Guttman Community College, New York, NY 10018, USA
Miguel Padilla: Department of Biology, College of Staten Island, New York, NY 10314, USA

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 7, 1-33

Abstract: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), commonly known as “forever chemicals”, are synthetic compounds with highly stable carbon–fluorine bonds, making them resistant to environmental degradation. These chemicals accumulate in ecosystems and water supplies, posing significant risks to human health, including cancer, immune system dysfunction, and neurological disorders. However, the mental health impacts of PFAS exposure remain underexplored, particularly in marginalized communities. This review examines the emerging evidence linking PFAS exposure to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline, with a focus on communities of color who face heightened vulnerability due to environmental and social health disparities. The review highlights the persistence of PFASs in the environment, common exposure pathways, and the disproportionate effects on populations living near contaminated sites. Despite some regulatory progress, U.S. regulations on PFASs are limited, especially compared to international standards. The review calls for stronger policy frameworks and emphasizes the need for environmental justice, health equity, and public awareness. By connecting environmental health, social justice, and mental well-being, the review aims to guide future research and policy reforms to mitigate the mental health consequences of PFAS exposure in vulnerable populations.

Keywords: environmental justice; marginalized communities; mental health; PFAS; race; social inequalities; water contamination (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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