From the Guidelines
Exposure to well water is a potential risk factor for cognitive decline, particularly if the water contains contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or certain bacteria, and individuals relying on private wells should have their water tested regularly and consider installing filtration systems to mitigate potential risks. The risk of cognitive decline associated with well water exposure varies depending on the geological characteristics of the area, nearby industrial or agricultural activities, and whether the well water is regularly tested and properly treated 1. It is essential to note that not all well water poses risks, but untested and untreated well water represents a potentially preventable risk factor for cognitive health problems.
Key factors to consider when assessing the risk of cognitive decline from well water exposure include:
- The presence of contaminants like heavy metals (especially arsenic and manganese), pesticides, or certain bacteria in the well water
- The specific geological characteristics of the area and nearby industrial or agricultural activities
- Whether the well water is regularly tested and properly treated
- The vulnerability of certain populations, such as the elderly and young children, to the potential neurotoxic effects of well water contaminants
To mitigate potential risks, individuals relying on private wells should:
- Have their water tested regularly for contaminants
- Consider installing appropriate water filtration systems based on test results
- Ensure adequate hydration, with a daily fluid intake of 1.6 L for women and 2.0 L for men, as recommended for individuals with dementia and frailty 1
- Monitor their cognitive health and report any concerns to their healthcare provider
It is crucial to prioritize the health and well-being of individuals who rely on well water, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to the potential risks associated with well water exposure. By taking proactive steps to test and treat well water, individuals can help mitigate potential risks and protect their cognitive health.
From the Research
Exposure to Well Water and Cognitive Decline
- Exposure to well water has been linked to cognitive decline due to the presence of toxic elements such as lead, arsenic, and fluoride 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- A study found that older adults who lived as children in cities with lead pipes and acidic or alkaline water had worse cognitive functioning 2.
- Arsenic exposure in drinking water has been associated with decline in cognitive function, particularly in highly exposed populations 3.
- Fluoride exposure in drinking water has been linked to cognitive deficits in children, with high fluoride levels negatively associated with cognitive function 4.
- The toxicity mechanisms of arsenic, including oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, have been shown to parallel those associated with neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment 5.
Toxic Elements in Well Water
- Lead, arsenic, and fluoride are toxic elements that can be present in well water and have been linked to cognitive decline 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Aluminium, cadmium, and zinc have also been found to be good predictors of cognitive test scores, with high levels of these elements in groundwater exceeding admissible levels for drinking water 6.
- Urine has been shown to be a suitable biomarker of exposure to these toxic elements, both with low and high excretion rates 6.
Cognitive Impathing Factors
- Environmental exposure to potentially toxic elements, including those found in well water, appears to be a risk factor for cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative diseases 3, 5, 6.
- Water consumption habits and profession have been identified as relevant factors of exposure to toxic elements in well water 6.
- The relationship between urinary levels of toxic elements and cognitive disorders suggests that exposure to these elements may contribute to cognitive decline 6.