Factors Associated with Exposure to Trihalomethanes, NHANES 2001-2012
David L Ashley1, Mitchell M Smith2, Lalith K Silva2
1School of Public Health , Georgia State University , Atlanta , Georgia 30303 , United States.
Environmental Science & Technology
|December 24, 2019
Summary
Exposure to disinfection byproducts (DBPs) like trihalomethanes (THMs) in drinking water is a health concern. Recent water use activities, such as showering, significantly impact blood THM levels, highlighting the importance of considering external dose in health assessments.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Water disinfection is essential for public safety but generates harmful disinfection byproducts (DBPs).
- Trihalomethanes (THMs), a class of DBPs, are linked to adverse health effects, including reproductive issues and cancer.
- Regulatory bodies like the U.S. EPA have implemented stricter regulations on THM levels in drinking water.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the association between water-related predictors and blood levels of THMs.
- To assess the utility of including water exposure measures in health studies.
- To examine trends in blood THM levels over time.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 2001-2012.
- Modeling blood THM levels with and without water-related exposure variables.
- Quantification of blood chloroform and bromodichloromethane (BDCM) levels.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in median blood chloroform and BDCM levels were observed between 2001-2002 and 2011-2012.
- THM water concentrations and recent water use activities were associated with blood THM levels.
- Activities like showering or bathing within hours of blood collection correlated with elevated blood THM concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Recent water use is a significant factor influencing internal dose of nonpersistent compounds like THMs.
- Incorporating measures of recency and external dose enhances the assessment of health risks associated with THMs.
- Public health strategies should consider recent exposure pathways for DBPs.
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