The Long-Term Effects of Drilling Chlorinated Water: Risks and Benefits
Introduction
One of the most common ways of purifying water in households and public utilities is by adding chlorine. This process, known as chlorination, aims to eliminate harmful microorganisms and ensure the water is safe for consumption. However, the long-term effects of consuming chlorinated water are a subject of growing concern. This article explores the risks and benefits associated with chlorinated water to help you make an informed decision about your drinking water choice.
The Risks of Chlorinated Water
Recent studies have linked the consumption of chlorine in drinking water to an increased risk of various cancers, including breast, bladder, and colon cancer. Additionally, chlorine can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to potential health issues. It is a double-edged sword; while it is effective in killing bacteria, its long-term effects can be detrimental to your health.
According to a retired high-ranking official at the USEPA, the health effects of drinking chlorinated water are largely unknown. Despite this, the practice of chlorination is widespread due to its effectiveness in eliminating harmful pathogens.
Chlorine in Drinking Water
Chlorine is commonly used in municipal water treatment processes to maintain a residual level in the water supply. For instance, the water company where the author used to work diluted sodium hypochlorite to a 2% solution to achieve a residual chlorine level of about 0.20 ppt. This level can vary and is monitored on a daily basis.
One of the concerns with chlorine is its potential to evaporate, especially if left in open containers such as a gallon jug. While this is less of an issue, the risk of bacteria multiplying in such conditions is a significant concern.
Benefits of Chlorinated Water
While the risks of chlorinated water cannot be ignored, it is important to weigh these against the benefits. In the United States, some of the safest drinking water globally is due to the implementation of the Clean Water Act. Water companies are mandated to test for various contaminants and provide annual Consumer Confidence Reports disclosing the results. In the event of a violation, they are required to disclose it and take necessary actions such as issuing boil water notices and shutting down systems until tests confirm the water is safe.
The author personally prefers chlorinated water over the alternative, which can come from contaminated sources and lead to serious illnesses. Bacterial contamination is a much more significant risk than the presence of chlorine, and its effectiveness in eliminating pathogens makes chlorination an essential process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the long-term effects of chlorinated water are still being studied, it is an essential practice to prevent bacterial contamination. The United States' stringent regulations and testing protocols ensure the safety of water supplies. Despite the known risks, the benefits of chlorination in ensuring safe drinking water outweigh the potential downsides. Consumers can take steps to further purify their water, such as using water filters, to minimize even the small remaining risks.