Arsenic in North Carolina: Public Health Implications

摘要: Abstract Arsenic is a known human carcinogen and relevant environmental contaminant in drinking water systems. We set out to comprehensively examine statewide arsenic trends identify areas of public health concern. Specifically, North Carolina private wells were evaluated over an eleven-year period using the Department Health Human Services database for domestic well waters. geocoded 63,000 measurements by applying novel geocoding algorithm error validation scheme. geographical coordinates entries mapped Geographic Information System techniques. Furthermore, we employed Bayesian Maximum Entropy (BME) geostatistical framework, which accounts better estimate values across state unmonitored locations. Of approximately monitored wells, 7712 showed detectable concentrations that ranged between 1 806 μg/L. Additionally, 1436 samples exceeded EPA standard. reveal counties concern demonstrate historical pattern elevated some counties, particularly those located along terrane (Carolina slate belt). analyzed these data context populations targeted monitoring, such as Stanly Union Counties. By spatiotemporally mapping data, our BME revealed at locations within predicted when compared classical kriging method. This study reveals information on location arsenic-contaminated indicates potential increased risk adverse outcomes.