Monitoring hospital effluents through physico-chemical characterization and genotoxic testing

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Genetics

Background:

• Ineffective monitoring of water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) in healthcare settings can endanger public health, particularly if contaminated water mixes with drinking water supplies.
• Ensuring the safety and quality of treated wastewater is crucial before its disposal or potential reuse.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the physico-chemical properties of treated wastewater from healthcare facilities.
• To evaluate the in vivo genotoxic and cytogenetic effects of this water in a mouse model.
• To identify potential deficiencies in the water treatment process.

Main Methods:

• Mice were administered treated wastewater ad libitum for 7, 15, and 30 days at varying concentrations (10% and 100%).
• Bone marrow chromosomal aberration assays were conducted to detect structural DNA damage.
• Bone marrow micronucleus (MN) assays and the ratio of polychromatic to normochromatic erythrocytes were used to assess cytogenetic damage and mitotic activity.

Main Results:

• Chromosomal aberrations, including breaks and ring formations, were observed in various experimental groups.
• A significant decrease in mitotic index was noted in mice exposed to 100% concentration for 30 days.
• Increased MN induction and a reduced polychromatic to normochromatic erythrocyte ratio were significant in groups exposed to 10% and 100% concentrations for longer durations.

Conclusions:

• Treated wastewater from healthcare WRRFs exhibits in vivo genotoxic potential, especially after 30 days of exposure.
• Findings suggest that current treatment processes may have lacunae, necessitating improved monitoring and treatment strategies.
• The study highlights the importance of rigorous testing to ensure the safety of recovered water.