Arsenic
Health & what it is
Arsenic occurs naturally in many rock formations and can dissolve into groundwater, so it is most common in well-fed and groundwater systems, particularly in parts of the West, Midwest, and Northeast.
Long-term exposure above the EPA limit is associated with increased risk of skin, bladder, and lung cancer, as well as cardiovascular and developmental effects. Health concerns are chronic rather than acute.
EPA lowered the maximum contaminant level to 10 parts per billion (ppb) in 2006.
Where it comes from
Naturally occurring in rock and soil; also from past industrial and agricultural use.
How to reduce Arsenic at home
Look for a filter certified to NSF/ANSI 53 or 58 — Reverse osmosis or arsenic-specific adsorptive media.
- ✓Reverse osmosis
- ✓Adsorptive media designed for arsenic
- ✓Anion exchange (for arsenic in the arsenate form)
Frequently asked questions
What is Arsenic? +
A naturally occurring element; long-term exposure raises cancer and cardiovascular risk. Naturally occurring in rock and soil; also from past industrial and agricultural use.
What is the EPA limit for Arsenic in drinking water? +
The EPA limit is 10 ppb (MCL). To remove it, look for a filter certified to NSF/ANSI 53 or 58.
What are the health effects of Arsenic? +
Arsenic occurs naturally in many rock formations and can dissolve into groundwater, so it is most common in well-fed and groundwater systems, particularly in parts of the West, Midwest, and Northeast. Long-term exposure above the EPA limit is associated with increased risk of skin, bladder, and lung cancer, as well as cardiovascular and developmental effects. Health concerns are chronic rather than acute. EPA lowered the maximum contaminant level to 10 parts per billion (ppb) in 2006.
How do you remove Arsenic from drinking water? +
Reverse osmosis Adsorptive media designed for arsenic Anion exchange (for arsenic in the arsenate form)
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