Can Contaminated Water Cause Cancer?

Yes, exposure to contaminated water can increase the risk of cancer, depending on the type and level of harmful substances present.

If you’re interested in cancer-causing contaminants in water and how to avoid them, read on.

Table of Contents

What Is Contaminated Water?

Contaminated water contains harmful substances, such as chemicals and microbes. These pollutants make water unsafe to drink and use for most purposes.

Definition & Common Sources

According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency):

A water “contaminant” is anything other than water molecules.

There are several ways that water can become contaminated; here are some common examples:

• Industrial Pollution
• Hazardous Waste
• Agricultural Runoff & Fertilizers
• Water Treatment Byproducts
• Aging Infrastructure & Pipe Corrosion

What Contaminants in Water Are Linked to Cancer?

Water contamination is more than a hassle. It’s a hidden war where unseen toxins enter our lives. Some contaminants in drinking water have been linked to serious health risks, including cancer, but not all are immediately harmful.

Drinking water worldwide can contain hazardous substances, some of which have been classified as potential or probable carcinogens based on scientific research. Here’s a closer look at some of the most notorious waterborne contaminants linked to cancer.

Arsenic

Longstanding arsenic exposure has been associated with DNA damage, oxidative stress, and disruptions in normal cell function. The damage occurs silently over years, often without immediate symptoms, making it an insidious health threat.

Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water has been linked to an increased risk of liver, lung, bladder, and kidney cancer.

Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs)

Water treatment prevents disease, but it can also produce disinfection byproducts (DBPs).

Chlorine and chloramine are common disinfectants. When they mix with natural organic matter in water, they can form toxic compounds. Some of these compounds have been linked to an increased risk of cancer in scientific studies.

Nitrate & Nitrites

Nitrate contamination is one of the most widespread water safety issues, primarily caused by fertilizer runoff, livestock waste, and septic system leaks. Once in the body, nitrates convert into N-nitroso compounds (NOCs), which are known carcinogens.

Studies have connected nitrates in drinking water to thyroid, ovarian, bladder, kidney, and colorectal cancers.

Radionuclides

Most people associate radiation exposure with nuclear disasters or medical imaging. However, they often overlook that it can also come from drinking water. Radionuclides, such as uranium, radium, and radon, naturally occur in the earth’s crust but can leach into groundwater.

Long-term exposure to drinking water containing high levels of radionuclides has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

PFAS

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals used in nonstick cookware, firefighting foam, water-resistant fabrics, industrial processes, and more.

PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and the human body. They have become a global water crisis, with contamination reported in drinking water supplies across all 50 U.S. states.

Some studies suggest PFAS exposure may be associated with increased risks of testicular, kidney, and liver cancer, as well as immune system effects.

Water contamination has been documented in certain military bases, including Fort Ord, Camp Pendleton, Cherry Point, and Fort Bragg.

How to Know If Your Water Is Contaminated

Contaminated water isn’t always obvious. Many harmful substances, like lead, arsenic, bacteria, and some industrial chemicals, are invisible. They don’t change how water tastes or smells. However, sure signs may suggest that your water isn’t safe to drink.

Signs & Symptoms of Unsafe Drinking Water

Let’s go over the physical signs and health symptoms that can be linked to contaminated water.

Physical Signs of Contaminated Water

These are some physical signs linked to contaminated water:

• Cloudiness or discoloration – Water should be clear; a brown, yellow, or green tint can indicate rust, bacteria, or chemicals.
• Unusual smell – A rotten egg odor suggests sulfur, while a chlorine or chemical-like scent could indicate disinfection byproducts (DBPs).
• Metallic taste – A bitter or sharp metallic flavor may indicate lead, copper, or high mineral content.
• Slimy or oily texture – This could be caused by chemical runoff, industrial waste, or microbial growth.

Health Symptoms Linked to Contaminated Water

These are some health symptoms linked to contaminated water:

• Digestive issues – Persistent nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps may result from bacterial or chemical exposure.
• Neurological effects – Dizziness, memory problems, or developmental delays could indicate lead or mercury exposure.
• Skin irritation – Rashes or irritation may be due to chemical exposure, PFAS, or high chlorine levels.

How to Test Your Water for Contaminants

Regular water testing is the only reliable way to detect harmful contaminants. Whether you rely on a municipal water supply or a private well, testing is a part of routine water safety best practices.

At-Home Testing Kits

Home testing kits are widely available and can detect contaminants like:

• Lead
• Nitrates & Nitrites
• Chlorine & Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs)
• Bacteria (E. coli, coliforms, etc.)

Checking Local Water Reports

Annual Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs) provide detailed water quality analysis for those on municipal water systems. These reports list:

• Contaminant levels found in your local supply
• EPA safety standards and whether your water exceeds them
• Potential health risks associated with the detected contaminants

Where to Find It:

• Visit your water utility’s website
• Check the EPA’s Drinking Water Watch database
• Request a physical copy from your water provider

Key Insight: Municipal reports do NOT cover household plumbing contamination (e.g., lead from old pipes), so individual testing may still be necessary.

What Are Your Legal Rights If You Were Exposed to Contaminated Water?

If you or a loved one were exposed to contaminated drinking water and later developed cancer or other serious health issues, you may have legal options to seek compensation.

Legal action may help recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.

Can You File a Lawsuit for Water Contamination & Cancer?

Filing a water contamination lawsuit depends on several factors, including:

• Proof of Contaminant Exposure

You’ll need evidence that your drinking water contains harmful substances such as lead, arsenic, PFAS, nitrates, or radioactive materials.

• Medical Diagnosis Linked to Exposure

To claim compensation, your illness (such as bladder, kidney, or thyroid cancer) must be scientifically linked to the contaminant in your water.

• Negligence or Misconduct

In most cases, proving negligence or failure to act is required for liability. However, in specific legal contexts, liability may be based on contamination alone.

How to Find Out If You Qualify for a Claim

If you’ve been exposed to contaminated water and developed a serious illness, you may have a case. Here’s what to do:

• Check Your Water Supply – Review local water reports for contaminants like lead, arsenic, PFAS, or nitrates.
• Confirm a Medical Diagnosis – Certain cancers and health conditions are linked to water contamination. Keep medical records.
• Get Legal Advice – A lawyer can evaluate your case and help you seek compensation.

Deadlines usually apply, so don’t wait to take action if you think you or a loved one has been negatively impacted by water contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions related to water contamination and cancer.

What Are the First Signs of Cancer from Contaminated Water?

The initial signs of damage to different body parts can vary greatly depending on the type of contamination. If you notice irregularities in your normal bodily functions, contact your medical care provider.

Can Boiling Water Remove Carcinogens?

No. Boiling water does NOT remove carcinogens; in some cases, it can worsen contamination.

How Do I Find a Lawyer for a Water Contamination Case?

If you need legal help for a water contamination case, Winder Law Firm offers free consultations to discuss your options. Other law firms also handle similar cases. Consultation does not guarantee case acceptance.

Schedule your free consultation here.