Harmful Effects of Chlorine in Water Supply

Chlorine is used primarily as a disinfectant. Chlorine is often added to public water supplies to kill harmful bacteria, mold and algae, reduce odors or bad taste and remove minerals like iron. Chlorine is ingested in tap water and may be inhaled and absorbed through the skin during showering.

History

• Chlorine was first added to water supplies in the 1800's to kill widespread diseases and epidemics such as typhoid and cholera.

Is Chlorine Bad?

• Chlorine can be harmful because it combines with other naturally-occurring elements, like leaves and vegetation, to form trihalomethanes (THMs). The known toxin chloroform is a THM.

Chlorine By-Products and Cancer

• Chloroform is a probable carcinogen and has been linked to liver and kidney cancer in laboratory animals. A human study published by the American Journal of Epidemiology shows bladder cancer risk to double with exposure to chlorine by-products. Another human study reported by the American Journal of Public Health shows a 21 percent increase bladder cancer risk and a 38 percent increase in rectal cancer risk.

Reproductive Issues

• Chloroform has been linked to miscarriages and birth defects in laboratory animals.

Prevention/Solution

• To lessen exposure to chlorine in the water supply, it is recommended that you avoid chlorinated tap water and filter your shower water, since large amounts of chlorine may be inhaled and absorbed through the skin while showering. Buying chlorine-free household products will lessen your exposure and boosting your immune system will help your body minimize the effects of toxins.