On Tap Arsenic in Private Weils; An Under-recognized Hazard

摘要

Arsenic is naturally occurring in soil and rocks throughout the US and readily dissolves into water, particularly groundwater supplies. Exposure to arsenic via inhalation, ingestion and skin absorption can lead to cancers of the lung, bladder and skin. The estimated disease burden cost of known arsenic-related cancers in the US is $1.6 billion per year. Adverse outcomes other than cancers, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, affected pregnancy and child development outcomes, as well as skin lesions, have also been suggested. The lack of a perceived problem, testing by well owners and controversy of risks at low-dose exposures contribute to a reduced concern over arsenic exposures that may otherwise be preventable.