Is there an unsafe level of antimony in water?

Yes, the EPA says that there is too much antimony when levels are higher than 0.006 mg/L. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.

Is it possible to remove antimony from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to antimony harm my health?

Exposure to antimony may harm your

• cardiovascular system
• respiratory system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to antimony?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with antimony.
• Use glass or stainless-steel containers to store foods and beverages.
• Avoid consuming food or beverages from heated plastic containers, including water bottles left in a hot car or plastic food containers heated in a microwave. 

What is antimony?

Antimony is a metal found in Earth’s crust. It is used to make many products. Antimony is commonly used to produce flame retardants, plastics, optical glass (eyeglasses, microscopes, and cameras), fluorescent light bulb glass, pigments, ceramics, solder, and electronic components.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Antimony_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/a.html

Is there an unsafe level of arsenic in water?

Yes, the EPA says that there is too much arsenic when levels are higher than 0.010 mg/L, but since it may be harmful to health, they recommend trying to remove any amount of arsenic, even if lower than 0.010 mg/L. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.

What is Arsenic Speciation?

There are two varieties, or species, of arsenic that are significant in water: arsenic (III) and arsenic (V). Your lab report provides the combined total of arsenic detected in your water sample. However, if the arsenic result in your water is higher than 0.005 mg/L, the lab report will also provide the individual levels for both species (in a measurement of ug/L). This information will help a water treatment specialist determine the best system to reduce arsenic in your water should you, as the well owner/user, decide to install a water treatment system in your home.

Is it possible to remove arsenic from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to arsenic harm my health?

Arsenic is a human carcinogen (causing cancer in people).

Exposure to arsenic may also harm your

• dermal system (skin)
• gastrointestinal system
• hepatic system (liver)
• nervous system
• respiratory system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to arsenic?

• Arsenic is sometimes found in foods, such as seafood, rice, and fruit juices. If you eat these foods, include variety in your diet.
• Some pressure-treated woods contain arsenic, so do not burn old pressure-treated wood.
• If you have older wood structures (decks, play structures, etc), apply sealants every couple years.

What is arsenic?

Arsenic is an element found in rocks and soil. Arsenic is common in Iowa. Arsenic may contaminate well water if the water from the well is surrounded by rocks and soil containing arsenic.

Arsenic may also be in some foods, such as seafood, rice, grape juice, and apple juice, as well as some herbal medicines and Ayurvedic products. Arsenic has been used in some pressure-treated woods (use of arsenic in pressure-treated woods was phased out in the US in 2003), some pesticides, and some paint pigments. Arsenic is no longer produced in the US but it is still imported from other countries.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Arsenic_FactSheet.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/a.html

Is there an unsafe level of barium in water?

Yes, the EPA says that there is too much barium when levels are higher than 2 mg/L. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.

Is it possible to remove barium from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to barium harm my health?

Exposure to barium may harm your

• cardiovascular system
• gastrointestinal system
• reproductive system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to barium?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with barium.

What is barium?

Barium is a chemical that is common in surface water (lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers) and groundwater (the underground water used by private wells). Barium is used to make many products. Barium is used to make drilling muds, paint, bricks, tiles, glass, rubber, depilatories, fireworks, plastic stabilizers, and ceramics. It is also used by doctors as an x-ray contrast for the gastrointestinal tract.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Barium_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/b.html

Is there an unsafe level of beryllium in water?

Yes, the EPA says that there is too much beryllium when levels are higher than 0.004 mg/L. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.

Is it possible to remove beryllium from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to beryllium harm my health?

Beryllium is a human carcinogen (causing cancer in people).

Exposure to beryllium may also harm your

• gastrointestinal system
• immunological system
• respiratory system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to beryllium?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with beryllium.
• Avoid touching soil near uncontrolled hazardous waste sites. It is especially important to keep children and pets away from the area.

What is beryllium?

Beryllium is a metal found in rocks, coal, and soil. Beryllium may get into water from rocks, soil, or industrial waste. Beryllium may be used by metal refineries and coal-burning factories. It is used to make many products, such as cars, nuclear reactors, aerospace parts, computers, sports equipment, and dental bridges. People working or living near industries that use beryllium are most likely to be exposed.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Beryllium_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/b.html

Is there an unsafe level of cadmium in water?

Yes, the EPA says that there is too much cadmium when levels are higher than 0.005 mg/L. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.

Is it possible to remove cadmium from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to cadmium harm my health?

Cadmium is a human carcinogen (causing cancer in people).

Exposure to cadmium may also harm your

• cardiovascular system
• gastrointestinal system
• neurological system
• renal system (urinary system or kidneys)
• reproductive system
• respiratory system
• development of organs

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to cadmium?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with cadmium.
• Avoid smoking in enclosed spaces.
• Store nickel-cadmium batteries out of reach of children.
• Cadmium is sometimes found in foods, such as fish, root vegetables, leafy greens, fruit, and rice. If you eat these foods, include variety in your diet.

What is cadmium?

Cadmium is an element in rocks and soil. Cadmium is used to make many products, but mainly in batteries, pigments, metal coatings, and plastics. Cadmium is in cigarette and other tobacco smoke. Cadmium may also be in some foods, such as fish, root vegetables, leafy greens, fruit, or rice. People working or living near industries that use cadmium are most likely to be exposed.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Cadmium_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/c.html

Is there an unsafe level of cesium in water?

Scientists have not determined if there are levels of cesium that could be considered unsafe in water. If you are concerned about your test results, continue to the next section to learn how you might reduce cesium in your water.

Is it possible to remove cesium from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to cesium harm my health?

Exposure to cesium may harm the development of organs.

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to cesium?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with cesium.
• Cesium is sometimes found in foods, so include variety in your diet.

What is cesium?

Cesium is an element found in rocks, soil, clay, and dust. Most human exposure to cesium occurs through the diet. Cesium is used to make products such as photomultipliers and vacuum tubes, scintillation counters, infrared lamps, semiconductors, photographic emulsions, and high-power gas-ion devices, and as polymerization catalysts.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Cesium_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/c.html

Is there an unsafe level of cobalt in water?

Scientists have not determined if there are levels of cobalt that could be considered unsafe in water. If you are concerned about your test results, continue to the next section to learn how you might reduce cobalt in your water.

Is it possible to remove cobalt from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to cobalt harm my health?

Cobalt is a possible human carcinogen (may cause cancer in people).

Exposure to cobalt may also harm your

• cardiovascular system
• hematological system (blood forming)
• respiratory system
• development of organs

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to cobalt?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with cobalt.
• Follow your doctor’s advice if you have artificial hip or knee joints.

What is cobalt?

Cobalt is an element found in rocks, soil, water, plants, and animals. Cobalt is part of vitamin B12, which is essential to our health. Cobalt other than vitamin B12 can be toxic. Cobalt is used to make alloys for aircraft engines, magnets, grinding and cutting tools, and artificial hip and knee joints. Cobalt compounds are also used in blue pigments to color glass, ceramics and paints, and porcelain enamel.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Cobalt_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/c.html

Is there an unsafe level of lead in water?

The EPA says there is no safe level of lead in water. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.

Is it possible to remove lead from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of lead in your water. First, it is important to find out how lead may be getting into your water. You may need to work with a plumber to identify and replace pipes or fixtures containing lead. If it is not possible to remove lead-based pipes or fixtures, use bottled water to cook with and drink. If using tap water, flush the cold water for 1-2 minutes. Do not cook with or drink hot tap water, because it dissolves lead more readily than cold water.

We also recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate, which may be available for free.

Will exposure to lead harm my health?

Children are at significantly higher risk of harm from lead exposure than adults.

Lead is a probable human carcinogen (may cause cancer in people).
 

Exposure to lead may harm your

• nervous system
• renal system (urinary system or kidneys)

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to lead?

• If your home was built before 1978:
  • do not allow children to put their mouths on surfaces that may contain lead-based paint.
  • cover bare soil with grass or plants.
  • regularly wash children’s hands of dust and dirt.
• Do not allow children to put their mouths on older toys that may contain lead-based paint.
• Seek a certified professional if removing lead-based paint.

What is lead?

Lead is a toxic metal found in rocks and soil. Lead may get into drinking water through soil, lead-based pipes, or lead-based plumbing fixtures. Lead has been added to many products, such as gasoline, paints, ceramic products, glass, metal alloys, ammunition, and x-ray shields. Lead in paint was banned in 1978. The use of lead in other products is becoming less common because of health concerns.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Lead_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/l.html

Are there unsafe levels of manganese in water?

Yes, the EPA says that there is too much manganese when levels are higher than 0.3 mg/L. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.

Is it possible to remove manganese from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to manganese harm my health?

Exposure to manganese may harm your

• nervous system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to manganese?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with manganese.
• A diet that includes daily recommended amounts of iron will help prevent your body from absorbing excess manganese. The daily recommended amounts of iron vary based on age and sex.

What is manganese?

Manganese is a metal found in rocks and soil. It is also common in groundwater (the underground water that private wells tap into) as well as some foods, such as nuts, grains, beans, leafy greens, and tea. Manganese is an essential nutrient in our diet. The daily recommended amounts of manganese vary based on age and sex.

Manganese is used to make some products, including metal alloys and some agricultural anti-fungal chemicals. In Iowa, manganese has been used in steel slag for country roads. Water runoff from these roads is one example of how well water can be contaminated with too much manganese.  

Where can I find more information?

https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/m.html

Is there an unsafe level of molybdenum in water?

Yes, the EPA says that there may be too much molybdenum when levels are higher than 0.08 mg/L for a short-term exposure or 0.04 mg/L for a lifetime exposure. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.

Is it possible to remove molybdenum from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to molybdenum harm my health?

Exposure to molybdenum may harm your

• reproductive system
• respiratory system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to molybdenum?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with molybdenum.
• A diet that includes daily recommended amounts of copper will help prevent harmful effects from too much molybdenum. The daily recommended amounts of copper vary based on age and sex.

What is molybdenum?

Molybdenum is a mineral found in rocks and soil. It is common in surface water (ponds, lakes, streams, and rivers) and groundwater (the underground water that private wells tap into). It is also in some foods, such as grains, beans, leafy greens, and oats. Molybdenum is an essential mineral in our diet. The daily recommended amounts of molybdenum vary based on age and sex.

Molybdenum is used to make some products, including metal alloys, biofuels, solar panels, catalysts, lubricants, pigments, and some agricultural fertilizers. People working or living near industries that use molybdenum are most likely to be exposed.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Molybdenum_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://wwwn.cdc.gov/TSP/substances/SubstanceAZ.aspx

Is there an unsafe level of platinum in water?

Scientists have not determined if there are levels of platinum that could be considered unsafe in water. If you are concerned about your test results, continue to the next section to learn how you might reduce platinum in your water.

Is it possible to remove platinum from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to platinum harm my health?

Exposure to platinum may harm your

• dermal system (skin)
• respiratory system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to platinum?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with platinum.

What is platinum?

Platinum is a metal found in rocks and soil. Platinum is used to make electrodes, jewelry, and dental alloys. It is also used in some chemical manufacturing and in cancer treatment drugs. People working or living near industries that use platinum are most likely to be exposed.

Where can I find more information?

https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Platinum_BiomonitoringSummary.html

Is there an unsafe level of strontium in water?

Yes, the EPA says that there may be too much strontium when levels are higher than 25 mg/L for a short-term exposure or 4 mg/L for a lifetime exposure. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.  

Is it possible to remove strontium from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to strontium harm my health?

Exposure to strontium may harm your

• musculoskeletal system (muscles and skeleton)

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to strontium?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with strontium.
• A diet that includes daily recommended amounts of vitamin D, calcium, and protein will reduce the amount of strontium that is absorbed into your body.

What is strontium?

Strontium is an element found in rocks, soil, dust, coal, and oil. It is also in some foods, such as fish, grains, leafy greens, and diary. Strontium is used to make many products. It is used in some ceramics, glass, paint pigments, fluorescent lights, medicines, pyrotechnics, alloys, personal care products, and dyes. People working or living near industries that use strontium are most likely to be exposed.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/s.html
• https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/5359327

Is there an unsafe level of thallium in water?

Yes, the EPA says that there is too much thallium when levels are higher than 0.002 mg/L. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.

Is it possible to remove thallium from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to thallium harm my health?

Exposure to thallium may harm your

• cardiovascular system
• hepatic system (liver)
• nervous system
• renal system (urinary system or kidneys)
• respiratory system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to thallium?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with thallium.

What is thallium?

Thallium is a metal found in rocks and soil. It is used to make some medicines and electronic components. It has not been mined in the U.S. since 1984.

People may be exposed to thallium by eating foods or drinking water contaminated with thallium, working in or living by industries that use thallium, and smoking cigarettes. Groundwater (the underground water that private wells tap into) might be contaminated by thallium if it is near any hazardous waste sites that have thallium.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Thallium_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/t.html

Is there an unsafe level of tin in water?

Scientists have not determined if there are levels of tin that could be considered unsafe in water. If you are concerned about your test results, continue to the next section to learn how you might reduce tin in your water.

Is it possible to remove tin from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to tin harm my health?

Exposure to tin may harm your:

• hematological system (blood forming)
• immunological system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to tin?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with tin.
• Avoid eating seafood from water that may be contaminated with tin.
• Reduce the amount of foods or liquids you consume from tin-lined cans.

What is tin?

Tin is an element in rocks and soil. Tin is used in many products. It is used to line cans for food, drinks, and aerosols. Tin can be combined with other chemicals and used in products like toothpaste, soap, perfumes, dyes, packaging, paints, and pesticides. Tin can be found in water and soil near places where they are naturally present in the rocks, or where they are mined, manufactured, or used.

Where can I find more information?

https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/t.html

Is there an unsafe level of tungsten in water?

Scientists have not determined if there are levels of tungsten that could be considered unsafe in water. If you are concerned about your test results, continue to the next section to learn how you might reduce tungsten in your water.

Is it possible to remove tungsten from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to tungsten harm my health?

Exposure to tungsten may harm your

• Respiratory system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to tungsten?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with tungsten.

What is tungsten?

Tungsten is a metal found in rocks and soil. Tungsten is used in many types of products, such as electronics, welding supplies, sports equipment, and ammunition. Tungsten may also be combined with other chemicals to be used in ceramic pigments, fire retardants, and color-resistant fabric dyes. Exposure may occur in low levels through air, food, or water. People working or living near industries that use tungsten are most likely to be exposed.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Tungsten_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/t.html

Is there an unsafe level of uranium in water?

Yes, the EPA says there is no safe level of uranium in drinking water. In public drinking water, the EPA has set a maximum limit for uranium of 30 ug/L based on an acceptable level risk. Check your laboratory test report to see your personalized results.

Is it possible to remove uranium from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to uranium harm my health?

Exposure to uranium may harm your

• renal system (urinary system or kidneys)

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to uranium?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with uranium.

What is uranium?

We are testing for natural uranium, not enriched uranium, which is used for nuclear power. Natural uranium is a weakly radioactive substance found in rocks, soil, air, and water. Low levels may be found in food, particularly root vegetables and leafy greens, and drinking water. People working or living near industries that use uranium may have potential for exposure.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Uranium_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/az/u.html

Are there unsafe levels of neonicotinoids in water?

Scientists have not determined if there are levels of neonicotinoids that could be considered unsafe in water. If you are concerned about your test results, continue to the next section to learn how you might reduce neonicotinoids in your water.

Is it possible to remove neonicotinoids from drinking water?

Yes, you may be able to reduce the amount of chemicals in your water. First, it is important to find out how chemicals may be getting into your water. We recommend that you contact your county’s environmental health department or a well specialist. They may want to test your water for bacteria or nitrate or look at your well for any damage. Testing for bacteria or nitrate may be available for free through your county.

You may also be able to install an in-home treatment system to reduce chemicals in the water you drink. Not all treatment systems remove all chemicals. Talk to a water treatment specialist to determine the best options for the chemical(s) that may have been found in your water tests.

Will exposure to neonicotinoids harm my health?

We do not know all the ways that neonicotinoid insecticides can harm your health. We do know that exposure to neonicotinoid insecticides may harm your

• nervous system

Are there other ways I could limit my exposure to neonicotinoids?

If you will be applying neonicotinoid insecticides or in an area where these chemicals may have been applied, you should:

• Follow all manufacturer safety precautions.
• Wear protective clothing.
• Wash clothes separately after coming in contact with chemicals.
• Do not wear shoes into the home after coming in contact with chemicals.
• Limit access to chemically treated areas until the product has completely dried. It is especially important to keep children and pets away from the area.

What are neonicotinoids?

Neonicotinoids are among the most widely used insecticides in the world. Neonicotinoids are useful for protecting a broad range of crops from insect damage. We are testing for the neonicotinoids that are commonly used in Iowa: acetamiprid, clothianidin, imidacloprid, and thiamethoxam. We are also testing for two additional compounds that are created when these chemicals break down over time: 5-hydroxyl-imidacloprid and n-desmethyl-acetaiprid.

Where can I find more information?

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32267911/

Will exposure to benzophenone-3 harm my health?

Exposure to benzophenone-3 may harm your

• reproductive system

Are there ways I could limit my exposure to benzophenone-3?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with benzophenone-3.
• Wash sunscreens off your body when you’re not in the sun.
• Wash perfumes and cosmetics (make-up) off your body.
• Limit the amount of foods you eat that are packaged in plastic.

What is benzophenone-3?

Benzophenone-3 is a chemical found in some flowering plants. It is used as an ingredient in sunscreens, conditioners, cosmetics, and perfumes. It is also used in ink and in some plastic food packaging. People are usually exposed to benzophenone-3 through skin, but people that work with products containing benzophenone-3 may also breathe in mists.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Benzophenone-3_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/4632

Will exposure to bisphenol A harm my health?

Exposure to bisphenol A may harm the

• reproductive system
• developing fetus or infant

Are there ways I could limit my exposure to bisphenol A?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with bisphenol A.
• Wash your hands if you handle thermal register receipts.
• Use BPA-free baby bottles.
• When possible, use glass, porcelain, or stainless steel to store food and drinks.
• Do not microwave polycarbonate plastic food containers.
• Reduce the amount of canned foods you eat.

What is bisphenol A?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used to make polycarbonate plastics, such as food and drink containers, water carboys, plastic dinnerware, some safety equipment, car parts, and toys. Some, but not all, plastics that are marked with recycle codes 3 or 7 may be made with BPA. BPA is also used in the production of thermal papers (register receipts) and flame retardants. BPA epoxy resins are used in some food can linings and dental sealants. BPA is being used less in products due to health concerns.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/BisphenolA_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/sya-bpa/index.cfm
• https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/questions-answers-bisphenol-bpa-use-food-contact-applications

Will exposure to bisphenol F harm my health?

Exposure to bisphenol F may harm your

• reproductive system

Are there ways I could limit my exposure to bisphenol F?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with bisphenol F.
• Bisphenol F collects in dust, so wash your hands regularly.
• When possible, use glass, porcelain, or stainless steel to store food and drinks.
• Do not microwave polycarbonate plastic food containers.
• Reduce the amount of canned foods you eat.

What is bisphenol F?

Bisphenol F is a chemical that was developed to be used in place of bisphenol A (BPA). However, scientists are concerned that BPF may cause health issues like BPA. BPF is used to make polycarbonate plastics, such as food and drink containers. It has been used in building materials like water pipes, flooring, grout, and varnishes. It has also been added to some personal care products, such as body wash, lotions, hair care products, and cosmetics. BPF epoxy resins are used in some food can linings and dental sealants.

Where can I find more information?

• https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/ehp.1408989
• https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/12111 

Will exposure to bisphenol S harm my health?

Exposure to bisphenol S may harm your

• reproductive system

Are there ways I could limit my exposure to bisphenol S?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with bisphenol S.
• Bisphenol S collects in dust, so wash your hands regularly.
• Wash your hands if you handle thermal register receipts.
• When possible, use glass, porcelain, or stainless steel to store food and drinks.
• Do not microwave polycarbonate plastic food containers.
• Reduce the amount of canned foods you eat.

What is bisphenol S?

Bisphenol S (BPS) is a chemical that was developed to be used in place of bisphenol A (BPA). However, scientists are concerned that BPS may cause health issues like BPA. BPS is used to make polycarbonate plastics, such as food and drink containers. BPS is also used in the production of thermal papers (register receipts). It has been added to some personal care products, such as body wash, lotions, hair care products, and cosmetics. BPS is used in certain industries as an electroplating solvent, washfastening agent, and as a component in a phenolic resin.

Where can I find more information?

• https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/6626
• https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/ehp.1408989

Will exposure to 2,4-dichlorophenol harm my health?

Exposure to 2,4-dichlorophenol may harm your

• reproductive system

Are there ways I could limit my exposure to 2,4-dichlorophenol?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with 2,4-dichlorophenol.
• Avoid breathing in vapors or mist if you work with 2,4-dichlorophenol.

What is 2,4-dichlorophenol?

2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) is a chemical used to make some weed killers, specifically 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, known commonly as 2,4-D. 2,4-dichlorophenol may contaminate soil, surface water, and groundwater. People may be exposed to 2,4-dichlorophenol by breathing in vapors, drinking contaminated water, eating contaminated fish or vegetables, or touching the chemical or vapors.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/24D_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/8449
• https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm4923a3.htm 

Will exposure to 2,5-dichlorophenol harm my health?

Exposure to 2,5-dichlorophenol may harm the

• reproductive system
• developing fetus or infant

Are there ways I could limit my exposure to 2,5-dichlorophenol?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with 2,5-dichlorophenol.
• Avoid breathing in vapors or mist if you work with 2,5-dichlorophenol.

What is 2,5-dichlorophenol?

2,5-dichlorophenol is called a metabolite, a chemical that is that is made as another chemical breaks down. 2,5-dichlorophenol is produced as a chemical commonly in household and toilet deodorizers, moth repellents, and insecticides breaks down. It is also used to make some dyes and resins. People may be exposed to 2,5-dichlorophenol by breathing in vapors, drinking contaminated water, or touching the chemical or vapors.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/24D_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/8449
• https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm4923a3.htm

Will exposure to parabens harm my health?

Exposure to parabens may harm the

• reproductive system
• developing fetus or infant

Are there ways I could limit my exposure to parabens?

• Follow all safety precautions if you work with parabens.
• Limit your use of packaged food.
• Look at product ingredient labels.
  • Consider products that use natural preservatives
  • Avoid using products containing parabens.
• Use washcloths instead of baby wipes.

What are parabens?

Parabens are chemicals that are often used to preserve the shelf-life of some products. They are used in some cosmetics, personal care products, medicines, ointments, baby wipes, and lotions. They are also naturally found in some foods, such as fruit juices and wine. We are testing for four parabens: methyl-paraben, ethyl-paraben, n-propyl-paraben, and butyl-paraben.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Parabens_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/supported/sep/2015/parabens_exposure/index.cfm
• https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/parabens-cosmetics#what_are_parabens

Will exposure to triclosan or triclocarban harm my health?

Triclosan and triclocarban may cause bacterial resistance.

Exposure to triclosan or triclocarban may harm your

• reproductive system

Are there ways I could limit my exposure to these chemicals?

• Use plain soap and water to wash your hands and body.
• Avoid using products marketed as antibacterial or antimicrobial.

What are triclosan and triclocarban?

Triclosan and triclocarban are chemicals that is used to stop bacterial growth. They have been used in products such as cosmetics, soap, toothpaste, mouthwash, dish detergent, deodorant, and hand sanitizer. Triclosan has been added to some kitchenware and furniture. They are also used in healthcare settings in surgical scrubs, hand washes, and some medical devices. The FDA banned the use of triclosan and triclocarban in soap and body wash in 2016.

Where can I find more information?

• https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/Triclosan_BiomonitoringSummary.html
• https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-issues-final-rule-safety-and-effectiveness-antibacterial-soaps
• https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/5564