The E.P.A.’s report follows a growing body of research that has found that sludge can be contaminated with human-made “forever chemicals” known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, which are used in a wide range of household items such as nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing and stain-resistant carpets.

Chemicals found in sewage sludge that some farmers use to fertilize fields and pastures can pose a threat to human and animal health, the US Environmental Protection Agency said Tuesday.

Washington, DC – On Tuesday, EPA released a long-awaited draft report demonstrating that toxic "forever chemicals" in sewage sludge applied to farmland can cause cancer and other diseases in people who live near farm fields where the sludge is applied, or consume tainted milk, beef or other foods from these farms.