Millions of Americans may be drinking tap water contaminated with cancer-causing chemicals like arsenic, nitrate, and chromium-6, according to research highlighted by Dr. Joseph Mercola of Mercola.com. Outdated regulations fail to address these risks, prompting experts to call for stricter standards and better filtration to protect public health. Dr. Mercola writes:
Every day, millions of Americans turn on their taps and fill glasses, rinse produce, boil pasta, and bathe their children, rarely thinking twice about what’s in the water. But for millions of households, especially those near farms, factories, or relying on groundwater, that water may carry chemicals that increase the risk of cancer over time.
Despite clear evidence from decades of research, the way drinking water is regulated in the U.S. still hasn’t caught up. Most contaminants are reviewed one by one, with years between updates, and limits are based as much on economic feasibility as on public health, leaving many people at risk without knowing it.
These outdated standards have prompted researchers from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) to examine just how much cancer risk might be reduced if the problem were approached differently. Their findings suggest that a more realistic and protective approach is both possible and overdue. […]
More Ways to Protect Your Water
Filtration is an essential line of defense, but it’s not the only step you can take. There are additional ways to help reduce hidden exposures and give you more control over water quality from the source to the tap.
•Flush stagnant water from your pipes — If the tap hasn’t been used for several hours, such as overnight or after returning from travel, let the water run for a minute or two before using it. This helps clear out water that may have absorbed metals or chemicals while sitting in the pipes.
•Test private wells regularly — If you live in an older home or your household relies on well water, periodic testing is essential. Unlike municipal systems, private wells are not routinely monitored by public agencies. Annual testing is the best way to catch emerging problems early.
•Stay informed about your local water utility — Public water systems are required to publish Consumer Confidence Reports each year. These documents list detected contaminants, explain any violations, and outline planned improvements. Reading these reports helps you understand whether your community is meeting safety benchmarks and where gaps still exist.
•Engage with local and state decision-makers — Infrastructure upgrades and water treatment projects depend on funding and policy support. Contacting your state representatives, attending water board meetings, or submitting public comments on proposed rules helps ensure your concerns are heard. When residents get involved, it becomes harder for decision-makers to overlook the public health cost of delay.
Read more here.
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