Most people would like to think that if their tap water looks clear and tastes fine, it must be safe. The truth is more complicated. Certain groups of people have special needs when it comes to drinking water. Babies, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with weakened immune systems are far more vulnerable to hidden contaminants in drinking water. What might cause only mild discomfort in a healthy adult can have serious, even life-threatening consequences for these individuals.
Risks for Babies and Young Children
Infants and young children are growing and developing quickly, which means water contaminants can have a heavier impact. Contaminated water during this critical period can interfere with brain development or endocrine function, damage organs, or set the stage for lifelong health issues.
For example:
- Lead: Lead exposure, even in small amounts, can lower IQ, reduce attention span, and alter behavior in children. Lead can enter water from old pipes and fixtures or from mineral deposits.
- Nitrates: These chemicals are common in rural areas with agricultural runoff, but can cause “blue baby syndrome” by impairing oxygen delivery in an infant’s blood.
- Bacteria: Microorganisms that might not bother an adult can cause life-threatening diarrhea and dehydration in a baby.
Because babies and toddlers consume more water relative to their body weight than adults do, the impact of these contaminants is magnified. Unfiltered tap water used for formula or baby food could put a small child at risk.
Risks for Pregnant or Nursing Women
Pregnancy already places extra stress on the body, and contaminated water can create additional complications for both the mother and the baby. Some of these contaminants can also be passed on to babies through breast milk.
- PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances): Exposure to these substances—often called “forever chemicals”—is linked to low birth weight and developmental delays. They can easily cross into breast milk.
- Nitrates: These chemicals have also been connected to birth defects and pregnancy complications.
- Trihalomethanes: Disinfection with chlorine results in this group of chemicals being added to drinking water. They can be harmful to mothers-to-be and can enter breast milk. They are linked to problems such as low birth weight, premature birth and birth defects.
- Pesticides and herbicides: These substances can act as endocrine disruptors and interfere with infant growth.
Risks for the Elderly
As we age, our immune systems weaken, making it harder to fight off infections. A decline in liver and kidney function can make it harder to eliminate toxins that are consumed. Seniors are also more likely to have chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or respiratory problems—all of which can be worsened by contaminated water.
As an example, Legionella bacteria can cause a severe pneumonia-like illness called Legionnaires’ disease. While it may only make a healthy young adult mildly sick, it can cause a fatal illness in an elderly person. Even common contaminants like coliform bacteria can lead to gastrointestinal infections that hit seniors much harder than younger people.
Risks for Immunocompromised Individuals
Those who are undergoing chemotherapy, living with HIV, or taking medications that suppress the immune system are particularly susceptible to toxins or minor waterborne infections. Microorganisms like Cryptosporidium, Giardia, and E. coli are dangerous for these individuals and are capable of causing prolonged illness and complications.
When your body’s defenses are already compromised, water that isn’t thoroughly tested and treated can undermine your recovery and quality of life. Clean, healthy water becomes an urgent need for these individuals.
Common Water Contaminants of Greatest Concern
While thousands of toxic metals, industrial chemicals, pesticides and herbicides affect water quality, certain contaminants are particularly dangerous for sensitive groups like these:
- Lead: Damages brain development in children and raises blood pressure in adults.
- Nitrates: Especially dangerous for infants and linked to pregnancy complications.
- PFAS: Persistent chemicals tied to developmental delays, cancer, and immune dysfunction.
- Bacteria and Viruses: The most dangerous include Legionella, E. coli, and norovirus, which can cause severe illness.
- Other Toxins: Arsenic and pesticides are toxins which can accumulate in the body over time.
Professional Water Testing: Your First Line of Defense
There is an easy way to know exactly what is in your water. ETR Laboratories provides accurate reports to individuals, families, businesses and municipalities across the country who need to know what’s in their water. Every month, thousands of homeowners check their well water or analyze their city water so they can protect their health.
Once you know exactly what’s in your water, you can choose the most effective solution. Whether it’s a carbon filtration system, reverse osmosis unit, or disinfection, you can ensure that everyone, especially sensitive family members, has the protection they deserve. Take a close look at your water quality now with the Premium Water Test from ETR Laboratories. In just a few days, you can have all the data you need to take action. Order today!
