The United States is fortunate to have access to some of the safest drinking water in the world. However, even the most advanced treatment ...
While the levels of these contaminants are usually regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to be safe for human consumption, it's still important to be aware of what's in your water and the potential health risks.
Here are some of the most common drinking water contaminants in the United States:
- Microbial contaminants: These include bacteria, viruses, and protozoa that can cause gastrointestinal illness, skin infections, and other health problems. Common microbial contaminants include E. coli, Cryptosporidium, and Giardia.
- Disinfection byproducts: These are chemicals formed when chlorine or other disinfectants react with organic matter in water. Some disinfection byproducts, such as trihalomethanes, have been linked to an increased risk of cancer and other health problems.
- Inorganic chemicals: These include metals, such as lead and arsenic, as well as nitrates and nitrites. Lead can damage the nervous system, especially in children, while arsenic can cause cancer and other health problems. Nitrates and nitrites can be harmful to infants, causing a condition called methemoglobinemia.
- Organic chemicals: These include pesticides, herbicides, and other industrial chemicals. Some organic chemicals have been linked to cancer, birth defects, and other health problems.
- Pharmaceuticals: These include prescription and over-the-counter drugs that have been flushed down the toilet or leached from septic systems into groundwater. While the levels of pharmaceuticals in drinking water are usually very low, there is some concern about the potential for long-term health effects.
What can you do to protect yourself? There are a number of things you can do to reduce your exposure to drinking water contaminants:
- Drink filtered water: There are a variety of home water filters available that can remove contaminants from your drinking water.
- Test your water: You can have your water tested for contaminants by a certified laboratory.
- Reduce your use of pesticides and herbicides: This will help to reduce the amount of these chemicals that leach into groundwater.
- Be aware of the source of your water: If you get your water from a private well, it is important to have it tested regularly for contaminants.
It's important to remember that even small amounts of contaminants can have negative health effects over time. By being aware of the risks and taking steps to reduce your exposure, you can help to protect your health and the health of your family.
Additional resources:
- The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) website on drinking water: https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) website on safe drinking water: <invalid URL removed>
- The Water Quality and Health Council's website: https://www.wqa.org/
