Occurrence and Exposure to Trihalomethanes in Drinking Water: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Recognition of public health consequences of chemical contamination of drinking water is essential for people and concerned authorities. The potential human health effects linked with exposure to trihalomethanes (THMs) are of specific concern because of their possible carcinogenic nature. This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis featuring peer-reviewed articles to establish levels of THMs in drinking waters and identifying major pathways of THMs risk exposure to human health. Altogether we identified 78 research work matching our search conditions. THMs levels reported over the past few years have raised alarm and put serious questions for policy makers. Majority of risk assessment studies evaluate cancer and non-cancer risks for a range of sub-populations. Studies based on toxicological data indicated oral ingestion as the major pathway of cancer risk due to THMs exposure. In certain circumstances, risk assessment data can cause unnecessary fear among the general public which is understandable; however, it is important to emphasize here that the effects occur due to long-term exposure to THMs. This review work will serve as a database to provide information about the levels of THMs and highlights the risk exposure in relevance of this topic as a human health issue. This research aimed to illustrate THMs current exposure conditions in a more correct way which would be required to recognize the actual effects on human health.

Automated summary

This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to establish THMs levels in drinking water and identify the major pathways of THMs risk exposure. The findings highlight the potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to THMs and emphasize the importance of proper risk assessment and mitigation measures.