Preliminary findings from a new study suggest some residents in northwest Georgia may have significantly higher levels of so-called “forever chemicals” in their blood compared to most Americans.
Researchers with Emory University tested blood samples from nearly 200 people living in the communities of Rome and Calhoun. Early results indicate that some participants had levels of PFAS—per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—higher than 95 percent of the U.S. population.
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals commonly used for their oil, stain, and water-resistant properties. They are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not easily break down in the environment or the human body.
The study, which has not yet been formally published, is intended to compare PFAS levels in residents of Rome and Calhoun with national averages. While only preliminary data has been released, researchers say the early findings are concerning, particularly for individuals who have lived in the area for several years.
Emory University Professor Dana Barr, a key researcher involved in the study, said nearly one-quarter of participants showed elevated PFAS levels that raise health concerns.
“We’re just substituting one chemical for another similar chemical that might have similar health outcomes and similar exposure pathways,” Barr said. “This is something that’s inherently broken.”
Barr said she applied for and received grant funding for the study after seeing a public survey about PFAS chemicals and growing concerns about exposure in northwest Georgia. Of the 177 people tested for varying PFAS compounds, she said approximately 25 percent showed levels that could increase health risks.
According to Barr, health conditions of particular concern include thyroid disease, changes in cholesterol and lipid levels, and certain cancers—specifically kidney and testicular cancer.
“Something that I’m very concerned about is our tendency to replace chemicals readily with other chemicals that we don’t know anything about,” Barr said.
The study has drawn significant public interest. Emory University reports that approximately 400 people applied to participate, far exceeding the number of available spots.
Ben Finley, an attorney working with the PFAS Georgia Project, said he is pursuing legal action against carpet manufacturers to hold companies accountable for PFAS use. He emphasized that PFAS contamination is not just a local issue.
“This is a national problem,” Finley said. “Those folks that created the mess need to clean it up.”
Professor Barr said the full study is expected to be published later this year, which will provide a more complete analysis of PFAS exposure and potential health impacts in the region.