Haloacetic Acids are a group of substances included in the list of by-products or residues 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 drinkable. Most recent home water purification or camping water filter systems can remove these acids and other contaminants from any water source.
The components of the group of haloacetic acids are monochloroacetic acid, dichloroacetic acid, trichloroacetic acid, monobromoacetic acid and dibromoacetic acid. They generally have the ability to deactivate pathogens present in groundwater. They ensure the healthiness of treated drinking water during transport from its origin to its final destination: the end users.
Effects that have been found during laboratory experiments include the conclusion that water treatment by-products are carcinogenic. In addition, like chlorite, they also pose developmental risks. A concrete example of this is the impaired development of brain cells among fetuses and infants. This effect has been found to be the same among pregnant women. The ability to have healthy offspring is also affected by the by-products. Miscarriage is another effect that could occur in women who drink water with too much haloacetic acid.
This group of byproducts has also been linked to an increased risk of cancer. The parts that are easily affected by overexposure to haloacetic acids are the kidneys, liver, and nervous system. Studies have also shown that the harmful effects worsen as a person is continually exposed to increasing amounts of these byproducts.
Unfortunately, the body easily absorbs these byproducts. Following absorption, haloacetic acids are carried by the bloodstream. These acids stay in the blood cells and cause anemia. Another part of the body that absorbs them easily is the skin. Skin absorption of haloacetic acids could cause skin irritation and dryness. Its effects extend to hair proteins. They mix with the proteins in your hair strands and damage them, making your hair dull and brittle.
The standards for the amount that can be absorbed have been set by the government. Drinking water providers and treatment companies have been informed of these standards to ensure public safety. To ensure the safety of you and your family, you need to know your drinking water supplier. And, for added water safety, purify your home drinking water with a water purifier or camping water filter.