Contaminants such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium can leach into water from natural deposits or industrial activities.
These metals are toxic to human health, even in low concentrations.
Chemicals used in agriculture can seep into water sources through runoff, posing health risks to consumers.
Compounds like atrazine and glyphosate have been of concern due to their widespread use and potential health effects.
Substances such as benzene, trichloroethylene, and various solvents can contaminate water supplies from industrial facilities and waste sites, raising concerns about both acute and chronic health risks.
Bacteria, viruses, and parasites can cause waterborne illnesses. Pathogens like Escherichia coli (E. coli), Giardia, and Cryptosporidium pose serious health risks if present in drinking water.
The presence of trace amounts of medications, hormones, and other pharmaceuticals and personal care products in water has raised concerns about potential long-term health effects, as well as environmental impacts.
When disinfectants such as chlorine react with organic and inorganic matter in water, they can form disinfection by-products like trihalomethanes.
These by-products are regulated due to their potential health risks.
While added to water supplies for public health benefits, some consumers have concerns about the long-term effects of fluoride and chlorine ingestion.
Nitrates and Nitrites, commonly found in agricultural areas due to fertiliser use, these compounds are a concern, especially for infants and pregnant women, due to the risk of methemoglobinemia or "blue baby syndrome."
Recent attention has been focused on the presence of microplastics in drinking water, with concerns about their potential health effects and environmental implications.
These contaminants raise significant concerns among consumers, as they can have both acute and chronic health effects.
Ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water involves addressing these contaminants through rigorous testing, proper water treatment, and adherence to regulatory standards.
