Rutgers, CDC investigating PFAS contamination in Paulsboro water

PAULSBORO, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — Rutgers University and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are partnering for a study on the drinking water in a South Jersey town, and residents are asked to participate.

Anyone over age 18 who lived in Paulsboro from 2005 to 2014 is asked to contact Rutgers about being part of the data collection.

This is part of a multi-state investigation. Paulsboro was chosen because there was known contamination during that time, according to officials at Rutgers.

Researchers are looking at how dangerous chemicals called PFAS are impacting people's health in a variety of ways.

Some of the potential effects include elevated cholesterol levels, difficulty getting pregnant, increased risk for cancer and adverse affects on learning and growth for kids and babies, among other things.

Participants will be given the results of their testing which can be shared with doctors to better understand an individual's health. Gift cards of up to $75 will be given to those who sign up.

Anyone who is interested can learn more at the study's website.

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