CLOVIS, N.M. (KRQE) – Residents and workers surrounding Cannon Air Force Base near Clovis will be able to get free blood tests to check for PFAS. The tests are available to adults who have lived or worked in certain areas around the base where PFAS have contaminated the local water supply.
What are PFAS?
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals used in a variety of products, including food packaging, nonstick cookware, and certain types of fire-fighting materials. They are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not easily degrade in the environment, according to the New Mexico Environment Department.
Story continues below
Podcast: Why 2024 Is A ‘Bumper Crop’ Year For New Mexico Chile
Community: Albuquerque City Council approves United stadium plans
Trending: Trailer stolen from Rio Rancho woman’s front yard filled with kid party toys
Crime: Man arrested for hitting, killing traffic control worker on Highway 550 in Sandoval County
Studies have shown a link between PFAS and numerous adverse health effects, including increased cholesterol, reproductive problems, and cancer.
“The unfortunate truth is that most of us likely have PFAS in their blood due to the common use of these chemicals in consumer products like non-stick cookware and waterproof clothing,” Environment Department Sec. James Kenney said in a news release. “However, our residents who live on or near military installations like Cannon Air Force Base may be at significantly higher risk due to the Department of Defense’s longstanding practice of releasing PFAS into nearby groundwater. The Department of Defense’s lack of responsible and meaningful clean-up outside of Cannon Air Force Base over the last five years increases the risk of exposure to New Mexicans.”
Information about testing and who qualifies
The free tests are being offered by the New Mexico Environment Department, the Department of Health, and the Department of Veterans’ Services.
At this time, only current New Mexico adults who have worked or lived in the white-outlined area of the map displayed below are eligible. If future testing is warranted, the state may
increase eligibility outside this initial area.
PFAS blood testing eligibility area map near Cannon Air Force Base and Clovis. (Credit: New Mexico Environment Department)
Testing will be performed during two periods: Sept. 12 through Sept. 18, and Oct. 3 through Oct. 9. Participants will have a one-teaspoon-size blood sample taken, and it will be tested for 33 different PFAS.
NMED said participants will receive their results within three to four months via a letter that explains how to understand the data. NMHealth will offer access to public health staff members via a helpline to discuss results and answer any questions. All participants will also be given a $25 physical gift card after completing their appointment.
The state agencies will host a public meeting starting at 6 p.m. on Aug. 27 at the Clovis Civic Center (801 Schepps Blvd., Clovis, New Mexico 88101) to share information about how to make an appointment to get tested.
Additional information about PFAS can be found here.