Most of the houses of India get tap water. Many people filter that water and use it directly. Recently, a new study by the University of Columbia has revealed that a poisonous compound called arsenic in the tap water of America can be very harmful for children in the mother’s womb. According to research, even though the amount of arsenic in water is very low, it can prove dangerous for pregnant women and their children.
This research is worrying because about 28 crore people in the US depend on public water system. In such a situation, the lives of many people are surrounded by danger. According to the study, tap water cannot be considered completely safe. Especially then, then it comes to pregnant women and young children. In such a situation, everyone needs to pay attention to this serious problem.
What is arsenic and where is it found?
Arsenic is a poisonous chemical that is found naturally in the earth, especially in rocks and soil. It can leak from the earth and rocks and can be found in ground water which then comes in tap water. Arsenic has been found in supply of public water system of all 50 states of America and it is estimated that 28 crore people can be affected by it.
Why Arsenic is dangerous?
Arsenic is harmful for pregnant women and newborns. Research has found that even a small amount of arsenic in water can cause premature birth. Due to this, children of very low weight can also be born. These children can suffer from health problems throughout their life. These health problems include slow brain development, delay in learning, diabetes, heart problem and weak immune system.
How does arsenic affect the child?
The study states that arsenic can cross the placenta during pregnancy. That is, it can reach the child directly and can do many types of damage. It can spoil hormonal balance in the body,
DNA and organs can obstruct the development of the organs, do not allow nutrients to be properly in absorbing the body, causing inflammation, which can lead to premature delivery.
What amount of arsenic is safe?
According to the US EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), a maximum of 10 micrograms per liter of arsenic in water is considered safe. But this new research found that only 5 micrograms or less arsenic can be harmful for children. In such cases, children born in weight loss and they may have more health problems later.
What diseases can occur?
If someone comes in the contact of arsenic, he can have skin, colon, breast, kidney and other types of cancer. Along with this, people can also have heart related problems and can also harm their blood vessels.
How to avoid
Experts say that the limit of arsenic in tap water for public health protection should be reduced further, so that the health of the people does not be threatened. Tap water should be checked regularly. Especially use filters or filtered water for pregnant women and children.