Study Finds Possibly Toxic Chemical in Drinking Water
A previously unidentified chemical has been discovered in the tap water of about one-third of U.S. homes, a new study has found, and scientists are actively investigating whether it’s toxic.
The chemical, called chloronitramide anion, forms when “water is treated with chloramine, a chemical formed by mixing chlorine and ammonia. Chloramine is often used to kill viruses and bacteria in municipal water treatment systems,” NBC News reported.
What is Chloronitramide Anion?
About 40 years ago, researchers became aware of a chemical byproduct from water being treated with chloramine, but only with new testing have researchers been able to identify exactly what it is.
Is it Toxic?
Chloronitramide anion has never been studied before, so it may be years before scientists are able to understand whether it’s dangerous to consume. The study was published to call attention to potential safety concerns and encourage additional research.
While there is currently no conclusive evidence to suggest chloronitramide anion is harmful to health, it has some resemblances to other “toxic molecules,” David Wahman, Ph.D., study author and research environmental engineer at the Environmental Protection Agency, told NBC News.
How Widespread is the Chemical?
Part of the reason for the concern over the chemical’s potential toxicity is that it appears to be widespread in U.S. drinking water.
“We looked for it in 40 samples in 10 U.S. chlorinated drinking water systems located in seven states. We did find it in all the samples,” Wahman said.
He added that it’s likely to be found in all water treated with chloramine, which about 113 million U.S. residents get in their taps.
What’s the Impact on Health?
The study also calls attention to the possible health impact of using certain chemicals to treat tap water, not just chloramine. Some research has linked disinfected drinking water with increased rates of certain types of cancers.
“We don’t know what’s driving these. We have no idea if this compound is in any way related to those outcomes,” Julian Fairey, the study’s lead author and associate professor at the University of Arkansas, told NBC News.
What Should You Do?
Do I need a water filter?
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend testing your home’s tap water for the presence of harmful germs or chemicals. Then you can purchase a water filter designed to remove what you found specifically in your water.
If your water does not have any harmful germs or chemicals, you may decide not to use a filter. The CDC also points out that most home filters, like those in your fridge or in a pitcher, do not remove germs and typically only remove heavy metals and make the water taste better.
If you get your water from a well or rain, you should test it regularly for the presence of harmful germs or chemicals. For people who get their water from a public system, your utility company must provide a water safety report every year.
Conclusion
While the study’s findings are concerning, it’s essential to note that the chemical’s toxicity is still being researched. In the meantime, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to ensure the safety of your drinking water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is my tap water safe to drink?
A: The study’s findings suggest that there may be a risk of a previously unknown chemical in tap water, but more research is needed to determine its toxicity. It’s essential to test your water for the presence of harmful germs or chemicals and consider using a water filter if necessary.
Q: How can I test my water?
A: You can test your water with a water testing kit or hire a professional to do it for you. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend testing your home’s tap water for the presence of harmful germs or chemicals.
Q: What is an activated carbon filter?
A: An activated carbon filter is a type of filter found in many fridge and pitcher filters that can remove the byproducts of chemicals used to disinfect tap water, but more research is needed to determine its effectiveness in removing chloronitramide anion.
Q: How common is chloronitramide anion in U.S. drinking water?
A: The study found that chloronitramide anion was present in all 40 samples of U.S. chlorinated drinking water systems located in seven states, suggesting it may be widespread in U.S. drinking water.
