Safe drinking water is an essential resource for human health and well-being. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about water contamination by lead and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and their potential impacts on child growth and development. Lead and PFAS are toxic substances that can have detrimental effects on children’s health, including their physical growth, cognitive development, and overall well-being.
Lead Contamination in Water: Lead is a highly toxic metal that can enter drinking water through corrosion of plumbing materials, such as pipes and fixtures. Lead-contaminated water is a major concern, especially in older homes and communities with aging infrastructure. Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead exposure, as their developing bodies and brains are more sensitive to its toxic effects.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), lead is a common contaminant in drinking water due to aging infrastructure, such as lead pipes and plumbing fixtures [1]. In fact, a 2018 report by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) estimated that as many as 10 million or more homes in the U.S. receive drinking water through lead service lines, potentially exposing millions of people, including children, to lead-contaminated water [2].
The impact of lead-contaminated water on child growth and development has been extensively studied. Research has shown that even low levels of lead exposure can result in cognitive and behavioral impairments in children. Lead exposure has been associated with decreased IQ scores, impaired learning and memory, attention deficits, and developmental delays [3]. Additionally, lead exposure has been linked to stunted growth and reduced height in children [4]. These effects can have long-term consequences, impacting a child’s academic performance, social behavior, and overall quality of life.