7 Common Water Contaminants & Their Health Risks

Water is essential for life, but what happens when the very thing we rely on for hydration and survival becomes a source of harm? Water contamination is a significant issue, and many of us may not even realize that the water flowing from our taps could be laced with harmful substances. Contaminants in drinking water are more common than most people think, and they can pose serious health risks. Understanding what contaminants are most prevalent, how they affect our health, and where we can turn for solutions is the first step in protecting ourselves and our families.

Let's dive into some of the most common water contaminants, their health risks, and resources where you can learn more or take action.

1. Lead

Lead contamination in drinking water is a serious concern, especially for children. Lead can enter water supplies through corroded plumbing, old pipes, and lead-containing fixtures. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that lead is toxic to nearly every organ and system in the body, with the nervous system being particularly vulnerable. Even small amounts of lead can impair cognitive function, leading to learning disabilities, behavioral issues, and developmental delays in children.

Health Risks:

Neurological damage in children

Kidney damage

Increased blood pressure in adults

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that no level of lead in drinking water is considered safe, and it is essential for homes with older plumbing to have their water tested. The NIH also provides information on how lead exposure can have long-lasting effects, even in small amounts.

Resource: EPA - Lead in Drinking Water

2. Arsenic

Arsenic is a naturally occurring substance found in soil and rock, and it can contaminate groundwater. It's also used in industrial processes, which can lead to contamination in some areas. Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water is associated with various health issues, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and skin lesions.

Health Risks:

Skin cancer

Bladder and lung cancers

Neurological damage

Heart disease

The World Health Organization (WHO) has established guidelines for arsenic levels in drinking water to minimize these health risks. For the U.S., the EPA has set the maximum allowable concentration of arsenic in drinking water at 10 parts per billion (ppb). Areas where arsenic levels exceed this threshold need to take preventive measures such as using proper filtration systems.

Resource: CDC - Arsenic in Drinking Water

3. Pesticides and Herbicides

Pesticides and herbicides used in farming, lawns, and gardens often run off into water supplies, especially after rainfall. These chemicals can persist in the environment, and their presence in drinking water can cause a range of health problems, from gastrointestinal disturbances to more severe neurological and hormonal issues. Common pesticides like atrazine and glyphosate have been detected in water supplies, prompting concerns about their long-term effects.

Health Risks:

Endocrine disruption

Reproductive issues

Increased risk of cancer

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) maintains a database of pesticide levels in public drinking water across the United States, offering insights into which areas are most affected. Their work helps inform the public about what specific contaminants might be present in local water supplies and what can be done about it.

Resource: EWG - Water Database

4. Chlorine and Chloramine

Chlorine is widely used by municipal water systems to disinfect drinking water and kill bacteria, while chloramine (a derivative of chlorine) is used in some water supplies as a more stable disinfectant. While these chemicals are effective at eliminating pathogens, they can have adverse health effects, especially when consumed over long periods.

Health Risks:

Respiratory issues (if inhaled in steam or gas form)

Digestive problems

Skin irritation

For those sensitive to chlorine, the WHO suggests that overexposure can lead to issues like headaches, fatigue, and skin conditions. Moreover, chloramine can be more difficult to remove from water through standard filtration methods, requiring more advanced filtration systems for those who want to eliminate it from their drinking water.

Resource: WHO - Chlorine and Water Quality

5. Nitrates and Nitrites

Nitrates and nitrites are commonly found in agricultural areas, as they are used in fertilizers. When these chemicals leach into water supplies, they can cause a condition called methemoglobinemia or "blue baby syndrome," which affects infants under six months old. This condition reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen, causing babies to turn blue due to oxygen deprivation.

Health Risks:

Blue baby syndrome in infants

Increased risk of certain cancers in adults (long-term exposure)

The CDC recommends that nitrate levels in drinking water be limited to 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L) to avoid health risks. Communities with agricultural run-off should regularly test their water to ensure safe nitrate levels.

Resource: CDC - Nitrates in Drinking Water

6. Bacteria and Viruses (Pathogens)

Waterborne pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa can contaminate drinking water, particularly in areas with poor sanitation or during flooding. Contaminants like E. coli, Salmonella, and Giardia can cause serious gastrointestinal issues and infections.

Health Risks:

Diarrhea

Vomiting

Abdominal cramps

Dehydration

The EPA provides extensive guidelines for protecting water supplies from bacterial contamination. It is crucial for municipalities to treat water properly and for individuals to use proper filtration methods if they rely on private wells.

Resource: CDC - Waterborne Diseases

7. Fluoride

Fluoride is commonly added to public water supplies to help prevent tooth decay. While fluoride at optimal levels can be beneficial for dental health, excessive fluoride can lead to fluorosis, a condition that affects the teeth and bones. In rare cases, too much fluoride can cause bone damage and other systemic issues.

Health Risks:

Dental and skeletal fluorosis

Bone fractures

The WHO recommends that fluoride levels in drinking water be no higher than 1.5 mg/L to prevent overexposure. Communities that add fluoride to their water should monitor levels regularly to ensure they remain within safe limits.

Resource: WHO - Fluoride in Drinking Water

Taking Action

It's essential to regularly test your water and take appropriate action if contaminants are found. There are various water filtration systems available that can address specific contaminants, from activated carbon filters to reverse osmosis systems. For those who rely on well water, regular testing is a must, as private wells are not subject to the same regulations as public water systems.

By staying informed and using your trusted resources you can take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful contaminants in your drinking water.

For more information, or to test your water for common contaminants, check out the resources listed throughout this article.

Thank you 🙏

Future of Resilience