New Jersey’s water quality is under intense scrutiny, with 126 contaminants identified across 573 water systems. A staggering portion of the state’s population—nearly 9 million people—may be affected by these contaminants in their water supply. Among these are six key contaminants that pose significant risks to public health: Total trihalomethanes, Chloroform, Dibromochloromethane, Bromodichloromethane, Haloacetic acids, and Dichloroacetic acid. These harmful substances are widespread, affecting hundreds of water systems and millions of residents, and they warrant urgent attention due to their known links to serious health conditions.
Number of Water Systems Affected: 500
Number of People Impacted: 8,799,725
Description: Total Trihalomethanes are chemical byproducts formed when chlorine-based disinfectants react with natural organic matter in water. These compounds are commonly found in public water supplies due to widespread chlorine use in water treatment. Chronic exposure to TTHMs has been associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer, liver damage, and reproductive issues.
Number of Water Systems Affected: 499
Number of People Impacted: 8,787,919
Description: Chloroform, a volatile organic compound, is typically created as a byproduct of water disinfection processes. While highly effective at eliminating bacteria, chloroform exposure can lead to serious health concerns, including liver and kidney damage, as well as potential carcinogenic effects such as an elevated cancer risk over long-term use.
Number of Water Systems Affected: 476
Number of People Impacted: 8,777,881
Description: This contaminant is another byproduct of disinfection chemicals reacting with organic materials in water. Dibromochloromethane is linked to liver injury and may cause changes in blood chemistry, leading to chronic health conditions. Prolonged exposure even at low levels has been implicated in cancer risks.
Number of Water Systems Affected: 473
Number of People Impacted: 8,771,271
Description: Formed during chlorination processes, Bromodichloromethane is a highly potent contaminant. Known to have carcinogenic effects, it has been shown to increase the likelihood of developing bladder and colorectal cancer. In addition to its cancer risks, it can negatively impact the liver and kidneys.
Number of Water Systems Affected: 435
Number of People Impacted: 8,712,235
Description: Haloacetic acids are another group of byproducts from water disinfection. These compounds have been linked to an increased risk of cancer and developmental problems, especially in children and pregnant women. Long-term exposure to HAAs can lead to significant reproductive and neurodevelopmental effects.
Number of Water Systems Affected: 397
Number of People Impacted: 8,540,445
Description: A form of haloacetic acid, Dichloroacetic Acid originates from municipal water treatment processes. Its health impacts include developmental toxicity and interference with cellular metabolism. The contaminant has been shown in studies to raise cancer risks, making it particularly concerning for long-term water safety.
Exposure to these contaminants has profound health consequences, including increased risks of cancer (bladder, kidney, and colon cancers are the most commonly linked), liver toxicity, and developmental challenges. Vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly face heightened risks. For example, the neurodevelopmental impacts of Haloacetic acids can have lifelong effects on cognitive and physical development in children, while the carcinogenic properties of trihalomethanes and Bromodichloromethane represent a persistent threat to all residents, regardless of age.
With so many water systems impacted and millions of people at risk, addressing these contaminants is an urgent public health necessity. Clean, safe, and reliable drinking water is vital for sustaining healthy communities across New Jersey.
New Jersey’s water challenges, stemming from widespread contamination affecting nearly every community in the state, are a cause for serious concern. By prioritizing stricter regulations, improving filtration technologies, and enhancing public awareness of these water quality issues, significant strides can be made in ensuring safer water for all residents. The right steps today can prevent long-term health crises tomorrow, making it imperative for every individual to stay informed about their water quality and take the necessary precautions to ensure the purity of their drinking water.
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