What Are the Health Risks of Contaminated Groundwater?
Exposure to contaminated groundwater can lead to a variety of health issues. The specific health risks depend on the type and concentration of contaminants present. For example, nitrate contamination can cause methemoglobinemia, or "blue baby syndrome," particularly in infants. Long-term exposure to arsenic may lead to skin lesions, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the toxicological profiles of contaminants is essential for assessing the risks associated with groundwater pollution.