Why are nitrates in drinking water dangerous to human health?
NITRATES IN DRINKING WATER
Iowa Personal Injury Lawyer
Nitrates in drinking water are dangerous because they interfere with how the body transports and uses oxygen. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Methemoglobinemia (“Blue Baby Syndrome”)
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In infants under 6 months, nitrates are converted in the digestive system into nitrites, which bind to hemoglobin in red blood cells.
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Instead of carrying oxygen, hemoglobin becomes methemoglobin, which cannot release oxygen efficiently to body tissues.
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This oxygen starvation can cause bluish skin, difficulty breathing, and, in severe cases, death if untreated.
2. Pregnancy Risks
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Pregnant women exposed to high nitrate levels may also develop methemoglobinemia.
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There’s evidence suggesting possible links to adverse pregnancy outcomes, though research is ongoing.
3. Cancer Risk
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When nitrates are ingested, they can form N-nitroso compounds, which are known carcinogens.
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Long-term exposure to elevated nitrates has been associated with higher risks of stomach, esophageal, bladder, and colorectal cancers.
4. Other Health Effects
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Some studies suggest links to thyroid problems, because nitrates can interfere with iodine uptake.
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Chronic exposure may also increase risks of hypertension and other cardiovascular stressors.
5. Regulatory Standards
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The U.S. EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for nitrate at 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) in public drinking water.
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Levels above this are considered unsafe, especially for infants, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions.
