The USA Today just posted an article about a peer-reviewed study conducted by the Environmental Working Group showing that, although water may be deemed as “safe”, it could still be posing cancer risks. The study looked at carcinogens which are commonly found in tap water such as arsenic, uranium, and radium. Items, such as arsenic, are naturally occurring and are monitored and have limits set by the EPA. Thankfully, they have even reduced the level of allowable arsenic in the water.

However, the study noted several “byproducts of water disinfection”. Now, without a doubt water needs to be disinfected to deal with viruses, bacteria, etc. However, as the study notes the byproducts that can be caused by these chemical reactions can create issues. Individually, these are monitored and should not exceed a certain level. When a combination of chemicals, which individually all meet “safe” levels, are combined in the water it can pose increased risk. According to the study this is what has not really been evaluated effectively is the increased risk posed by the combinations. Essentially it is like Benadryl, Nyquil, and Melatonin. Individually, they should be okay, but the combination of the three would have a complete different effect.

No surprise to most people, but of course we have water issues out here. So much of this land was agricultural and we see that in the water. If you are concerned about your water or have questions and would like to know what can be done to safely treat the water for your home specifically give us a call. We will have a technician come out and sit down to answer your questions and perform a water test. We look forward to talking with you and continuing to provide our customers a defense against the mounting issues with water.
We’ve included links to the USA Today article and for those of you who like statistics and peer-reviewed papers the link to the study that was published.

USA Today Article

Can you get cancer from tap water? New study says even ‘safe’ drinking water poses risk
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2019/09/19/your-tap-water-safe-study-claims-cancer-
risk-even-safe-water/2350072001/

Published Study

Cumulative risk analysis of carcinogenic contaminants in United States drinking water
https://www.heliyon.com/article/e02314