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Water stands as a vital necessity for human survival, yet concerns about the safety of our drinking water are on the rise. In the United States, an array of chemicals infiltrates our water supply, presenting potential hazards to our well-being.
According to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), the majority of Americans have access to safe drinking water. However, between 2018 and 2020, approximately one in ten individuals experienced a health-related water quality violation.
The task of delivering high-quality water in the United States has become increasingly complex, largely due to an aging and insufficiently funded drinking water infrastructure.
This article addresses the pressing issue of harmful chemicals in US drinking water, with a specific focus on their detrimental impact on kidney health.
Arsenic
Arsenic, a naturally occurring element, has the potential to contaminate water sources through geological processes and human activities such as mining and industrial discharges.
Recently, a study conducted by scientists at the University of New Mexico, reported by Daily Mail, revealed a concerning fact. It highlighted that around 95 percent of the US population depends on wells and community systems containing unsafe levels of toxic contaminants.
Arsenic was detected in over 50 percent of Community Water Systems (CWSs), with 2.6 percent exceeding the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL).
This alarming discovery holds particular significance in the Southwest and Great Plains regions of the United States. Elevated levels of arsenic in these areas are linked to hard rock mining processes and mine waste.
Prolonged exposure to arsenic through drinking water is linked to various health issues. It particularly emphasizes the vulnerability of kidneys and increases the risk of chronic kidney disease.
Lead
Lead contamination in drinking water is predominantly a result of corroded plumbing systems or lead pipes, posing a significant threat to public health. Even minimal exposure to lead can have detrimental effects, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women.
Recent ABC News reporting is alarming, revealing that 77% of samples from 7,758 active school water systems regulated by the EPA showed lead contamination. Approximately 16% of these samples registered in the double digits, and 6% exceeded the EPA’s recommended maximum threshold.
Although the data reflects reports up to the third quarter of 2023, the tests were conducted over the past 30 years.
These alarming statistics underscore the pervasive and longstanding nature of lead contamination, with potentially severe repercussions for kidney health.
The kidneys, being a vital organ, are especially vulnerable to the harmful impacts of lead toxicity. Chronic exposure to lead significantly increases the risk of decreased kidney function and promotes the development of kidney disease. Lead interferes with the organ’s normal functioning, causing long-term damage and potentially leading to severe health complications.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals valued for their water- and grease-resistant properties, extensively employed across various industries.
According to TorHoerman Law, these persistent compounds resist easy breakdown and accumulate in the environment, including water sources, contributing to widespread contamination.
Notably, the use of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) in firefighting has played a significant role in PFAS contamination. AFFF contains PFAS, and when applied during firefighting operations, particularly at military and industrial sites, it releases these harmful chemicals into the environment. This contributes to the widespread dissemination of PFAS contaminants.
Research has identified a connection between PFAS exposure and kidney damage. Alarming statistics from the Firefighter Cancer Support Network highlight that firefighters are 27% more likely to be diagnosed with kidney cancer than the general population.
Furthermore, they are nearly 30% more likely to succumb to kidney cancer, underscoring the severity of the risks associated with PFAS exposure.
The seriousness of the situation is evident in the multitude of ongoing AFFF lawsuit cases. Affected communities and individuals are actively taking legal action against manufacturers to seek recourse for health issues arising from PFAS exposure.
According to Forbes, the total number of these lawsuits has exceeded 6,000. This highlights the widespread impact and the increasing legal response to the health challenges associated with AFFF containing PFAS.
Nitrate
Nitrate, a prevalent contaminant in drinking water, often originates from agricultural runoff and wastewater discharge. Circle of Blue reports that large livestock feeding operations stand as a significant contributor to nitrate pollution.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, these operations produce an estimated 1.4 billion tons of liquid and solid manure annually. This nitrogen-rich waste is untreated and spread over 19 million acres of farmland each year, ultimately draining into streams, rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
While nitrate itself is not directly toxic, its transformation into nitrite within the body poses health risks. Elevated nitrite levels have been associated with methemoglobinemia, a condition that diminishes the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity and poses potential harm to the kidneys. Additionally, nitrate exposure has been associated with a heightened risk of kidney stones and other kidney-related problems.
In conclusion, ensuring the safety of our drinking water is crucial for safeguarding public health. Understanding the potential threats posed by harmful chemicals is a vital step in this ongoing process.
The impact of these chemicals on kidney health underscores the necessity for stringent water quality regulations, monitoring, and advanced treatment technologies.
As consumers, it is essential to stay informed, advocate for clean water initiatives, and support measures that prioritize the health of our communities.