Skip to main content
Back to Show
Horizons from PBS News

How PFAS harm our health — and why they’re everywhere

Season 2026 Episode 3

What do non-stick pans, firefighting foam and many of our couches, carpets and cosmetics have in common? They’re all made with PFAS. The so-called forever chemicals helped spur innovation, but they’re also insidious to human health. Horizons moderator William Brangham explores these chemicals and how we can protect ourselves with investigative journalist Mariah Blake and scientist Laurel Schaider.

Support Provided By
Exploring the science of keeping your mind sharp as you age
26:45
Exploring the science of keeping your mind sharp as you age
Genetic mutation could unlock new ways to treat dementia
26:46
How a rare genetic mutation could unlock new ways to treat or prevent dementia
How much privacy is left in an age of surveillance?
26:46
How much privacy is left in an age of surveillance?
The science of grief and how it can impact physical health
26:46
The science of grief and how it can impact physical health
The lasting health toll of 9/11 on rescue workers and survivors
26:46
The lasting health toll of 9/11 on rescue workers and survivors
Technology is reshaping education. But is it helping students learn?
26:46
Technology is reshaping education. But is it helping students learn?
Why America faces a primary care shortage
26:46
Why America faces a primary care shortage – and why it matters
Can recycling solve the world's trash problem?
26:46
Can recycling solve the world's trash problem?
The unsung heroes of American innovation and ingenuity
26:49
The unsung heroes of American innovation and ingenuity
Why communities are revolting against data centers
26:54
Why communities are revolting against data centers
The decline of bird populations and why humans should care
26:46
The alarming decline of bird populations and why humans should care
Why uterine fibroids are so common yet misunderstood
26:46
Why uterine fibroids remain misunderstood despite affecting most women
Active loading indicator