Cancer-causing chemicals have been found in drinking water across America, raising serious concerns about public health and the urgent need for improved filtration and regulation.
At a Glance
- A study links thousands of cancer cases to carcinogens in drinking water
- 22 carcinogens were identified, including arsenic, uranium, and radium
- Many community water systems meet legal standards but still pose health risks
- The EPA is investing $1 billion to address PFAS in drinking water
- Experts recommend filtering water at home and checking local water quality
The Alarming Findings
A groundbreaking study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has revealed a disturbing connection between cancer-causing chemicals in our drinking water and thousands of cancer cases across the United States. The research suggests that millions of Americans are consuming water contaminated with carcinogens, potentially leading to over 100,000 cancer cases.
The study identified 22 carcinogens linked to increased cancer risks, including arsenic, uranium, radium, and disinfectant byproducts. Groundwater sources were found to have higher concentrations of arsenic and radioactive materials, while surface water sources, though serving larger populations, showed a lower risk.
The "forever chemicals" known as PFAS are linked to cancer, reproductive problems, and weakened childhood immunity. Is your tap water affected?https://t.co/tM4kSLjguI
— EWG (@ewg) July 11, 2024
The Scope of the Problem
The contamination issue extends beyond just a few isolated areas. The U.S. Geological Survey recently conducted a comprehensive tap water study that detected PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” across the country. These chemicals have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, liver and heart problems, and developmental damage in infants and children.
“The vast majority of community water systems meet legal standards,” Olga Naidenko, Ph.D., EWG’s vice president for science investigations, says in a statement. “Yet the latest research shows that contaminants present in the water at those concentrations … can still harm human health.”
This statement underscores a critical point: even water systems that comply with current legal standards may still pose significant health risks. The legal limits for many contaminants have not been updated in decades, leaving consumers vulnerable to emerging threats.
Government Response and Regulation
In response to these alarming findings, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken action. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized the first-ever national drinking water standard for PFAS, setting enforceable limits for five individual PFAS and mixtures of four PFAS.
“Drinking water contaminated with PFAS has plagued communities across this country for too long,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “That is why President Biden has made tackling PFAS a top priority, investing historic resources to address these harmful forever chemicals and protect communities nationwide. Our PFAS Strategic Roadmap marshals the full breadth of EPA’s authority and resources to protect people from these harmful forever chemicals. Today, I am proud to finalize this critical piece of our Roadmap, and in doing so, save thousands of lives and help ensure our children grow up healthier.”
The EPA is investing $1 billion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help states and territories address PFAS in drinking water. This initiative is part of the Biden Cancer Moonshot, which aims to reduce cancer death rates by half by 2047.
What Can Consumers Do?
While government action is crucial, there are steps individuals can take to protect themselves. The EWG recommends filtering water at home and offers a “Tap Water Database” tool for consumers to check their local water quality. It’s important to note that bottled water is not necessarily safer and comes with its own set of environmental concerns.
“It is important that such reports be appropriately communicated to the public and not spread fear,” says Maurie Markman, MD, President of Medicine & Science at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA). “There is no question that this report is concerning, and further quality investigation is mandated to both understand the magnitude of the issue and appropriate action steps to mitigate the potential risks.”
As we confront this critical issue, it’s essential to stay informed, support research and regulation efforts, and take practical steps to ensure the safety of our drinking water. The health of our nation depends on clean, safe water, and it’s a responsibility we all share in protecting this vital resource.
