Water is a key component of our bodies, making up about 67% of us, so its quality is crucial. When water becomes contaminated with harmful chemicals or microbes, it can pose serious health risks, including infections and chronic diseases like cancer and heart issues.
In this article, we’ll explore how polluted water impacts our health and why maintaining clean water is really important for our well-being.
Main Causes of Water Pollution
Water pollution can come from various sources like,
After use, water becomes wastewater, containing domestic, commercial, agricultural, or industrial waste. According to the UN, 80% of wastewater returns to the environment untreated, contaminating natural water bodies.
Agriculture is a major water consumer and polluter. Rainwater runoff from farms carries fertilizers, pesticides, and animal waste into rivers and streams, causing water pollution.
Each year, millions of tons of plastic waste enter the oceans, harming marine life and human health. Plastics break down into microplastics, which can be ingested by fish and eventually humans.
Oil spills from tankers and leaks from factories and cities can severely pollute water bodies.
Improper disposal of radioactive waste can lead to long-term water contamination.
The process of extracting oil or gas from rock uses large amounts of water mixed with chemicals, which can pollute underground water supplies.
Contaminated water can have several negative impacts on human health
- Microplastics– Ingesting microplastics through drinking water or contaminated seafood can cause oxidative stress, inflammatory reactions, and metabolic disorders.
- Chemical Contaminants– Drinking water with chemical pollutants like pesticides, fertilizers, and heavy metals can lead to cancer, hormone disruption, altered brain function, and damage to immune and reproductive systems.
- Bacterial Contaminants– Water contaminated with sewage can harbor harmful bacteria causing diarrhea, cholera, dysentery, typhoid, hepatitis A, and polio. According to the WHO, 2 billion people use water sources with fecal contaminants, resulting in serious diseases.
- Physical Contaminants– Swimming in contaminated water can lead to rashes, pink eye, respiratory infections, and hepatitis.
How can we prevent water pollution?
- Minimize plastic usage and recycle whenever possible to reduce plastic waste entering water bodies.
- Dispose of household chemicals properly and avoid using harmful pesticides.
- Ensure your vehicle does not leak harmful
- Clean up after pets and support community clean-up efforts.
- Make eco-friendly choices in your daily life, such as reducing meat consumption and supporting sustainable products.
Conclusion
The health risks associated with water pollution are serious and far-reaching. Understanding what pollutes our water and how to address it can help us all enjoy cleaner, safer water. If contaminated water is affecting your health, seek medical assistance and look into ways to improve your water quality.
Disclaimer: Above content does not constitute any legal advice and is only provided for educational purpose.
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