Haloacetic acids are a group of substances included in the list of by-products or wastes of water treatment. Its formation occurs when chemicals such as chlorine are applied to the water supply to strip it of contaminants and make it safe to drink. Most modern home water purifiers or camping water filtration systems are capable of stripping these acids and other contaminants from any water source.
The components of the haloacetic acid group are monochloroacetic acid, dichloroacetic acid, trichloroacetic acid, monobromoacetic acid, and dibromoacetic acid. In general, they have the ability to inactivate pathogens present in groundwater. They secure the safety of treated drinking water during transportation from its source to the final destination – the end users.
Effects found during laboratory experiments included the conclusion that water treatment by-products are carcinogenic. Moreover, like chlorites, they also cause developmental risks. One concrete example of this is the deterioration of brain cell development among fetuses and children. This same effect was found among pregnant women. The ability to produce healthy offspring is also affected by by-products. Miscarriage is another effect that can occur significantly in women who drink water that contains a lot of halooxytic acids.
This group of by-products has also been associated with an increased risk of cancer. The parts that are easily affected by excessive exposure to haloacetic acids are the kidneys, liver, and nervous system. Studies have also shown that adverse effects worsen as a person is continually exposed to increasing amounts of these by-products.
Unfortunately, these by-products are easily absorbed by the body. Upon absorption, haloacetic acids are transported by the bloodstream. These acids remain in the blood cells and cause anemia. Another part of the body that absorbs it easily is the skin. Skin absorption of haloxynic acids may cause skin irritation and dryness. Its effects extend to hair proteins. They mix with the protein in your hair strands and damage them, making your hair dull and brittle.
Standards are set for the amount that can be absorbed by the government. Drinking water suppliers and processing companies have been informed of these regulations to ensure the safety of the public. To ensure your safety and the safety of your family, you must know your drinking water supplier well. And for added water safety, purify your home’s drinking water with a water purifier or a camping water filter.
