Official announcements or publications by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Mysterious, Potentially Toxic Chemical in One-Third of U.S. Homes' Drinking Water Identified After 40 Years

Nov 21, 2024, 09:46 PM

An international team of scientists has identified a mysterious chemical in the U.S. drinking water, which has been present for nearly 40 years. This compound, a byproduct of chlorine-based water treatments, has sparked concerns about potential public health risks. The chemical, found in the tap water of about one-third of American homes, is now under investigation for its potential toxicity, including the possibility of being carcinogenic. The research team is advocating for a rapid assessment of its health effects, as the compound's presence in water supplies could affect tens of millions of homes.