Title: 
Headings: Arsenic in Drinking Water
Arsenic in Drinking Water
Content: Arsenic in Drinking Water (PDF)
Health Effects
Drinking water with low levels of arsenic over a long time is associated with diabetes and increased risk of cancers of the bladder, lungs, liver, and other organs. Coming in contact with arsenic can also contribute to cardiovascular and respiratory disease, reduced intelligence in children, and skin problems, such as lesions, discoloration, and the development of corns. Health impacts of arsenic may not occur right away and can develop after many years, especially if you are in contact with arsenic at a low level over a long time. How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) federal drinking water standard for arsenic in drinking water is 10 micrograms per liter (µg/L).* However, drinking water with arsenic at levels lower than the EPA standard over many years can still increase your risk of cancer. As a result, EPA sets health risk goals. The EPA has set a goal of 0 µg/L for arsenic in drinking water. These goals do not consider the cost of water treatment to reach that level of arsenic in drinking water. *One microgram per liter (µg/L) is the same as 1 part per billion (ppb). If you have a private well
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommends that every well be tested for arsenic at least once.