Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals used in various industrial and consumer products for their water- and grease-resistant properties. Commonly found in items like non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, and food packaging, PFAS have been widely used since the 1940s. These substances are persistent in the environment and human body, earning them the nickname "forever chemicals." Due to their stability, PFAS can accumulate over time, raising concerns about potential health effects, including impacts on the immune system and increased risk of certain cancers.