Is Arsenic in Water Dangerous?

1 min read

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can be found in water sources, including groundwater and surface water. While small amounts of arsenic in water are not necessarily harmful, higher levels of arsenic can be dangerous to your health. In this article, we’ll explore what arsenic is, how it gets into water, and the potential health risks associated with exposure to arsenic in water.

What is Arsenic?

Arsenic is a chemical element that is found in the earth’s crust. It can be found in water sources in the form of dissolved solids, and it is also commonly used in pesticides, wood preservatives, and other industrial applications.

How Does Arsenic Get into Water?

Arsenic can enter water sources through natural processes, such as the weathering of rock and soil, and through human activities, such as the use of arsenic-containing pesticides and the release of industrial waste into water sources.

Health Risks Associated with Arsenic in Water Exposure to high levels of arsenic in water can be harmful to your health. Long-term exposure to arsenic can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as skin, lung, bladder, and kidney cancer. It can also lead to other health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and developmental problems in children.

Arsenic in Drinking Water

If you are concerned about arsenic in your drinking water, it’s important to have your water tested. If the levels of arsenic in your water are higher than the recommended levels set by the EPA, you may want to consider using a water filter or water dispenser with a built-in filtration system to remove the arsenic from your water.

 

What Can You Do to Reduce Your Exposure to Arsenic in Water?

Here are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure to arsenic in water:

  1. Use a Water Filter Installing a water filter in your home or using a filtration system on your water dispenser can help to remove arsenic and other contaminants from your drinking water.
  2. Choose a Safe Water Source If you have well water, have it tested regularly for arsenic and other contaminants. If the levels of arsenic in your well water are too high, consider using a different water source for drinking and cooking.
  3. Test Your Water If you’re concerned about the levels of arsenic in your drinking water, have it tested. This will give you a better understanding of what’s in your water and what steps you can take to reduce your exposure to arsenic.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can be found in water sources and can be harmful to your health if exposure to high levels of arsenic is prolonged. To reduce your exposure to arsenic in water, consider using a water filter or water dispenser with a built-in filtration system, choosing a safe water source, and having your water tested regularly.