Water Quality in Joliet, IL

What is Radium 228?

Radium-228 is a radioactive isotope of radium that occurs naturally in uranium and thorium ores. It is part of the decay chain of uranium-232 and has a half-life of 5.75 years. Radium-228 can be found in groundwater and can contaminate drinking water supplies.

Health Effects

Exposure to radium-228 can lead to an increased risk of cancer, particularly bone cancer, due to its radioactive properties. Long-term exposure can also affect the kidneys and other organs.

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What is Radium 226?

Radium-226 is a radioactive isotope of radium, which is a naturally occurring element found in uranium ores. It is a decay product of uranium-238 and is known for its radioactive properties, emitting alpha particles and gamma radiation.

Health Effects

Exposure to Radium-226 can lead to serious health issues, including an increased risk of bone cancer and other malignancies. It can accumulate in bones and tissues, leading to long-term health effects due to its radioactivity.

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What is Fluoride?

Naturally occurring mineral in the environment and an essential element of tooth enamel

Health Effects

Elevated levels of fluoride in drinking water can lead to dental fluorosis in children, which is the discoloration and molting away of tooth enamel. Evidence on low-dose, chronic exposure to fluoride is not definitive but has been indicated as having potential neurological impacts. Studies have clearly established that long-term exposure to high doses of fluoride, higher than typically found in US drinking water, can have adverse effects on skeletal tissue (bones and teeth), which may cause higher risk of bone fractures in seniors. Skeletal fluorosis is a debilitating condition caused by high fluoride exposure during bone development in children.

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What is Lithium?

Lithium is a soft, silvery-white metal that belongs to the alkali metal group. It is highly reactive and flammable, and must be stored in mineral oil. Lithium is used in batteries, mood-stabilizing drugs, and other applications.

Health Effects

Exposure to lithium can lead to a range of health effects, including nausea, diarrhea, tremors, and in severe cases, lithium toxicity can cause kidney damage and neurological issues.

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What is Boron?

Boron is an element that occurs naturally in the earth's crust as borate minerals. It can be found in food, consumer products and some water sources, including some bottled water and groundwater from highly mineralized aquifers. While evidence suggests it is likely an essential nutrient for human health, animal studies have shown that exposure to high levels of boron can cause adverse developmental and reproductive effects.

Health Effects

Health protective levels of boron in drinking water have been established based on potential developmental toxicity.

Affected Organs

Common Sources

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