Chlorinating drinking water at common levels in the US and EU may raise cancer risks due to toxic byproducts. A new global analysis of 30 studies and 90,000 participants found a significant link between chlorination byproducts like trihalomethanes (THMs) and increased risk of bladder and colorectal cancers.
The study discovered a 33% increased risk of bladder cancer and a 15% increased risk of colorectal cancer. Researchers emphasize that home filtration is crucial, but alternatives are costly and not widely available. The lead author, Emilie Helte, notes that “what we see is alarming” and calls for more high-quality studies.
Chlorination has been a cornerstone of public health for over a century, eliminating deadly waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid. However, concerns about the long-term health effects of chlorine byproducts are becoming harder to ignore. The study’s findings raise questions about existing water safety standards, which may not be sufficient to protect against these potential carcinogens.
As millions rely on chlorinated water, the implications for public health are significant. The study’s results highlight the need for more research and consideration of alternative water treatment methods that can provide safer drinking water options.
Source: https://www.ehn.org/chlorinated-drinking-water-linked-to-higher-cancer-risk-study-finds-2671175636.html