Skin Reactions After Change in Drinking Water Treatment
Author Information
Author(s): June M Weintraub, Magdalena Berger, Rajiv Bhatia
Primary Institution: San Francisco Department of Public Health
Hypothesis
We hypothesized that homogeneity among the complaints might provide justification for a cross-sectional study of water customers.
Conclusion
The complaints described were heterogeneous, and many of the respondents had underlying or preexisting conditions that would offer plausible alternative explanations for their symptoms.
Supporting Evidence
- Seventeen respondents called the health department and were administered the questionnaire by telephone.
- Many respondents had underlying or preexisting conditions that could explain their symptoms.
- Only 17 people volunteered to participate in the questionnaire despite widespread publicity.
Takeaway
Some people complained about skin problems after their water treatment changed, but many already had skin issues before that.
Methodology
A questionnaire was administered to individuals who reported skin complaints after a change in water treatment.
Potential Biases
The complaints and speculation about symptoms related to the water treatment change were widely publicized, which may have influenced responses.
Limitations
The investigation was a convenience sample, and none of the respondents were examined by a dermatologist.
Participant Demographics
The average age of respondents was 65, with 14 females and almost half retired or disabled.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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