Dibromoacetic Acid (DBA)
Dibromoacetic acid is a brominated member of the HAA5 group (group limit 60 ppb); the EPA has not set an individual health goal for it.
Health Effects
One of the brominated haloacetic acids; associated with an increased cancer risk in long-term studies and reported as part of the HAA5 and HAA9 groups. The risk is chronic and lifetime rather than acute.
Common Sources
- Byproduct of disinfecting drinking water with chlorine
- Formed when chlorine reacts with natural organic matter such as decaying leaves, runoff, and algae
- Elevated when the source water contains naturally occurring bromide
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Where is Dibromoacetic Acid (DBA) Found?
Dibromoacetic Acid (DBA) has been detected above EPA health guidelines in 439 cities serving 4.1M people across the US.
and 434 more cities
Contaminant Type
Dibromoacetic Acid (DBA) is classified as a Disinfection Byproducts contaminant.
Related Disinfection Byproducts Contaminants
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