Risks of Perchlorate in Drinking Water for Pregnant Women
Author Information
Author(s): D. Crawford-Brown, Bob Raucher, Megan Harrod
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Hypothesis
What are the risks associated with perchlorate exposure in community water supplies for pregnant women and their fetuses?
Conclusion
The study suggests that perchlorate levels up to 24.5 μg/L pose little or no incremental risk to most pregnant women in the U.S.
Supporting Evidence
- Perchlorate is found in drinking water more widely than previously thought.
- Most pregnant women are not at significant risk from perchlorate levels below 24.5 μg/L.
- The study used data from the National Research Council to assess risks.
- Monte Carlo simulations were used to evaluate variability in risk among pregnant women.
- An oral reference dose of 0.0007 mg/kg/day was established to protect sensitive populations.
Takeaway
Drinking water with perchlorate is common, but most pregnant women are not at risk if levels are below 24.5 μg/L.
Methodology
The study used Monte Carlo analysis to assess risks based on various drinking water concentrations of perchlorate.
Limitations
The analysis assumes no correlation between system size and perchlorate concentration, which may underestimate risks for smaller systems.
Participant Demographics
The focus is on pregnant women, particularly those who may be iodine deficient.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website