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Heavy metals in drinking water: Occurrences, implications, and future needs in developing countries.

Shakhawat Chowdhury1, M A Jafar Mazumder2, Omar Al-Attas1

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Heavy metals in drinking water threaten human health, bioaccumulating and causing risks. This review focuses on challenges and research needs for heavy metal removal in developing countries.

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Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Public Health
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Heavy metals in drinking water present a significant global health risk.
  • Exposure occurs mainly through water consumption, with potential for bioaccumulation and severe health consequences like cancer.
  • Thousands of publications exist, yet challenges remain, particularly in developing nations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review research on heavy metals in drinking water specifically within developing countries.
  • To understand the types, sources, variability, and exposure pathways of these metals.
  • To analyze contributing factors, health effects, removal strategies, and identify future research needs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific publications.
  • Analysis of data on heavy metal types, concentrations, and sources.
  • Examination of human exposure, health risks, and removal technologies.
  • Identification of challenges faced by developing countries.

Main Results:

  • Heavy metals in drinking water are a widespread issue, with varying types and concentrations.
  • Sources are diverse, influenced by local factors and industrial activities.
  • Limited economic capacity hinders the adoption of advanced removal technologies in developing countries.
  • Significant health risks are associated with long-term exposure.

Conclusions:

  • Developing countries face unique challenges in mitigating heavy metal contamination in drinking water.
  • Urgent need for cost-effective removal technologies and further research tailored to these regions.
  • Interdisciplinary approaches are crucial for safeguarding public health from heavy metal exposure.