Toxic PFAS Levels Found in Residents’ Blood Near US Air Force Base
A new state report has revealed dangerously high levels of PFAS—the toxic “forever chemicals”—in people living and working near Cannon Air Force Base in Curry County, New Mexico. The study shows their blood carried PFAS concentrations nearly 10 times higher than those who lived outside the contaminated zone, sparking major health concerns.
The contamination traces back to the military’s heavy use of PFAS-laced firefighting foam, which has polluted drinking water around the base. Tests confirmed that the same compounds commonly found in the foam were present in residents’ blood.
“This data turns heartbreak into hard proof,” said James Kenney, secretary of the New Mexico Environment Department. “The US Air Force has caused long-term harm to its neighbors, and this toxic PFAS plume must be addressed immediately.”
What Are PFAS and Why Are They Dangerous?
PFAS chemicals are a group of more than 15,000 compounds often used to make items water-, stain-, and grease-resistant. While widely used, these substances are linked to cancer, birth defects, immune system damage, high cholesterol, and kidney disease. Because they don’t naturally break down, scientists call them “forever chemicals.”
The US military has started phasing out firefighting foam containing PFAS, but pollution remains widespread—impacting over 700 military bases nationwide. Despite the risks, blood testing of nearby residents is not routinely done.
The Crisis in New Mexico
The state of New Mexico is suing the Air Force, pushing for quicker and more thorough cleanup. So far, the pollution has contaminated more than 100 private wells and even reached a public well in Clovis, a city with nearly 40,000 residents.
Water tests revealed PFAS concentrations 27,000 times higher than EPA’s drinking water limits. Polluted water is being used on croplands, raising alarms about the safety of food produced in the region. In 2018, local dairy farmers had to euthanize 3,500 cows after PFAS contamination was detected in their milk supply.
“This isn’t just a Curry County problem—it could happen anywhere in America,” Kenney warned. “Your family’s water and your health could be next.”
Shocking Blood Test Results
Out of 628 blood samples collected, a staggering 99% contained PFAS. The most common compounds detected were those used in firefighting foam.
26% of residents tested fell into the highest risk tier for PFAS levels nationwide.
Levels of PFHxS, a key foam-related PFAS compound, were measured at over three times the national average in those exposed to the contamination zone.
Although nearly 99% of Americans already have PFAS in their bloodstream, the levels in Curry County residents were significantly higher, putting them at greater risk of long-term health issues.
Air Force’s Response and Expert Warnings
The Air Force has not yet reviewed the new findings but says it is taking steps to reduce contamination, including installing a water treatment system.
David Andrews, chief science officer at the Environmental Working Group, said the results are consistent with other PFAS-contaminated communities across the US. “The higher the concentrations, the greater the health threat,” he warned. Andrews advised residents with elevated levels to consult their doctors and follow the National Academies’ health guidance on PFAS exposure.
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"New Mexico residents near Cannon Air Force Base show PFAS blood levels 10 times higher than average. Linked to cancer, kidney disease, and immune damage, the toxic “forever chemicals” are raising urgent health and safety concerns."